Passenger bus catches fire on expressway, passengers evacuate safely
VOV.VN - A passenger bus caught fire on the morning of May 1 on the Ho Chi Minh City–Trung Luong Expressway, causing panic among passengers and temporary traffic congestion during the peak national holiday period.
The incident occurred at around 8:00 while the bus was traveling from Ho Chi Minh City toward provinces in the Mekong Delta.
Witnesses said the vehicle suddenly emitted smoke before quickly erupting into flames. The fire spread rapidly from the rear section of the bus, producing a thick column of black smoke visible from a distance.
Upon detecting the fire, the driver immediately pulled the vehicle over to the emergency lane and opened the doors, allowing all passengers to evacuate safely. Thanks to the quick response, no injuries were reported.
Smoke first appeared at the rear of the vehicle before spreading rapidly, causing panic onboard, said a passenger on board.
Firefighting and traffic police units were quickly deployed to the scene after receiving the alert. The blaze was eventually brought under control, but the bus was almost completely destroyed, leaving only its frame.
The incident caused localised traffic congestion along the expressway, as vehicle flow increased significantly during the April 30–May 1 holiday period. Vehicles were forced to slow down when passing the scene.
Relevant agencies are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Although no casualties have been reported, the incident has raised renewed concerns about passenger transport safety, especially during peak travel seasons.