Double-Decker BEST Bus Catches Fire Near CSMT, No Injuries Reported

Mumbai, July 15: A major fire broke out on a BEST double-decker electric bus near Azad Maidan, close to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), during the busy Tuesday morning rush hour. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The incident occurred around 9:15 a.m., when the Route 138 bus, stationed at a stop near the terminal, suddenly caught fire. Commuters and bystanders were taken by surprise as thick smoke and flames engulfed the rear section of the vehicle.

Firefighters from the Mumbai Fire Brigade responded swiftly after a fire tender was dispatched to the scene. The blaze was brought under control in a short time, preventing further damage or escalation.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, and officials have confirmed that a detailed investigation is currently underway to determine what triggered the sudden combustion of the electric-powered bus.

Meanwhile, the Mumbai Traffic Police has issued a travel advisory. Commuters have been informed of slow-moving traffic on D N Road, opposite Siddharth College near Azad Maidan, especially in the southbound direction. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes to avoid congestion.

BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport), the city's primary public transport operator, has not yet issued an official statement regarding the vehicle or the status of the electric bus fleet.

This incident raises fresh concerns over the safety of electric vehicles in public transport, especially as the city increasingly shifts toward greener commuting alternatives.

Further updates are awaited as the probe continues.