Miracle Escape: 34 Passengers Survive Fiery Bus Blaze on Mumbai-Goa Highway

Kolad, Mumbai-Goa Highway: Late Saturday night, a private AC sleeper coach carrying 34 passengers, including the driver and cleaner, caught fire near the Kolad railway bridge on the Mumbai-Goa Highway. Miraculously, no injuries were reported as the passengers were safely evacuated moments before the fire engulfed the vehicle.

The incident occurred at around 11:45 PM when a loud noise from the rear of the bus prompted the driver to halt and investigate. On discovering flames, he swiftly ensured all passengers exited safely. The fire, however, rapidly consumed the bus and completely destroyed passengers' belongings.

Firefighting teams from Dhatav MIDC, Deepak Nitrate Company, and the Kolad Rescue Team, alongside police, worked tirelessly to control the blaze.

Assistant Police Inspector Nitin Mohite confirmed that the bus was only two years old. "The incident has been reported in the police diary and the RTO has been informed. The cause of the fire will be determined after inspection," he stated.

The bus, which had departed Jogeshwari, Mumbai, was headed towards Malvan. The collaborative rescue effort and quick action by the driver prevented what could have been a tragic disaster.