Nine killed as tourist sleeper bus catches fire in India

At least nine people, including a woman, were killed when a tourist sleeper bus caught fire on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, early Thursday (September 24).

More than 34 passengers were on board when the fire broke out, most of them asleep at the time. The flames spread rapidly through the bus, leaving several passengers unable to escape. Some reportedly tried to flee by jumping through the windows.

The bus was travelling from Noida to Mahoba via the Yamuna Expressway when it suddenly caught fire. The vehicle was engulfed in flames within minutes, according to reports.

Firefighters and police from Jewar police station rushed to the scene and launched rescue operations while bringing the blaze under control. The cause of the fire was not immediately confirmed, although an electrical short circuit was suspected as a possible cause.

A survivor said he was asleep when the fire started and woke up after hearing people banging on the door. He described scenes of panic and confusion inside the crowded bus, saying passengers struggled to escape as smoke quickly filled the vehicle.

The Uttar Pradesh government said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took stock of the situation and directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured and provide all necessary assistance to the victims’ families.