Update: Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha expressed concern regarding fire incident in a picnic bus in Tripura. In a social media post, Dr Saha wrote, “
Deeply concerned about the unfortunate incident in Mohanpur, where a picnic bus caught fire following a generator blast.
Praying for the speedy recovery of the individuals injured in this tragic event.
Six of the injured have been referred to GB Pant Hospital for further treatment.
We are closely monitoring the situation to ensure that the injured receive immediate medical attention.
Urging everyone to be cautious and mindful while enjoying the picnic.”
In a near-catastrophic incident in Tripura on Sunday, a bus carrying students and teachers from the Vivekananda Study Centre caught fire in Jagatpur Choumuhani, Mohanpur, leaving 11 people injured. Among the victims, several were students, with two sustaining critical injuries requiring advanced medical care.
The bus, which was returning from a picnic, was en route to Champaknagar from Bashgram when the fire erupted. Eyewitnesses recounted the terrifying moments as flames quickly engulfed the moving vehicle, forcing passengers to scramble for safety. The chaos was palpable as students and teachers attempted to escape the rapidly spreading blaze.
Firefighters arrived promptly at the scene and worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire and rescue the injured passengers with the help of locals. All those affected were immediately transported to Mohanpur Hospital for emergency medical attention.
Two critically injured individuals were later referred to GB Hospital in Agartala for specialized treatment.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been triggered by a generator being operated inside the bus.
The bus was completely destroyed in the fire, leaving behind only charred remnants.
The scene served as a grim reminder of the potential dangers associated with inadequate safety protocols. Local residents who played a significant role in the rescue efforts, have sounded alarm at the mishap.
The incident has sparked widespread discussions on the need for stricter safety regulations for vehicles, especially those transporting large groups of passengers or picnic parties.
“It could turn out to be a major disaster. Timely intervention of firefighter and local people helped to avert a horrific situation. However, this mishap underscores the urgent need for comprehensive safety checks and regulations,” said a local resident of Mohanpur who helped the firefighters in rescuing individuals from the bus and added, we cannot afford to compromise on the safety of our children and educators.
As the community rallies around the injured and their families, the incidence of fire in a picnic bus stands as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in ensuring the safety of passengers on public and private transport. Also, it is prudent that the picnic parties show some responsibilities and adhere to safety and security of the group.
(Tripura, Northeast)
