KSRTC bus gutted in fire in Haveri, all 17 passengers safe

Photo: KSRTC bus on fire near Devaragudda of Ranebennur taluk in Haveri district on Tuesday morningHaveri: A KSRTC Pallakki bus was completely gutted after it caught fire on the road near Devaragudda in Ranebennur taluk of Haveri district on Tuesday morning. All 17 passengers escaped unhurt, thanks to the timely action of the bus crew.The bus, operating on the Bengaluru–Gadag route and attached to Bengaluru Central Division's Depot-1, developed trouble while in motion. According to sources, the driver and conductor, Fakirappa S and Sanna Veerappa Angadi, noticed smoke emanating from one of the tyres.Realising the danger, the driver immediately halted the vehicle and ensured that all passengers alighted safely. Moments later, one of the tyres reportedly burst, triggering a major fire that spread rapidly through the bus.The flames soon engulfed the entire vehicle, reducing it to ashes. Though the fire brigade was alerted promptly, the bus had been completely gutted by the time firefighters reached the spot, officials said.No casualties were reported in the incident. Officials credited the driver's swift response with averting a tragedy. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the fire, with preliminary indications pointing to a tyre-related issue.