A major fire incident involving a private travel bus on the Kovvur–Rajahmundry Gammon Bridge in the early hours of Wednesday has raised renewed concerns about passenger safety and vehicle maintenance standards in Andhra Pradesh. The bus, operated by RRR Travels, was travelling from Khammam to Visakhapatnam when it caught fire, reportedly due to a short circuit in its internal wiring system.
According to preliminary reports, passengers noticed smoke emerging from the rear section of the bus while it was crossing the Gammon Bridge, a vital transportation link over the River Godavari. Acting swiftly, the driver halted the vehicle and alerted the passengers, enabling them to evacuate before the fire spread rapidly. Within minutes, the bus was completely engulfed in flames.
Timely Evacuation Prevents Loss of Life
Thanks to the alert response of the driver and the presence of mind shown by passengers, no injuries or casualties were reported. Fire and emergency services were immediately informed and reached the spot to extinguish the blaze. However, by the time firefighting operations concluded, the bus had been reduced to ashes.
Police officials confirmed that all passengers were safe and accounted for. The absence of casualties has been described as a narrow escape, given the intensity of the fire and the location of the incident on a busy bridge.
Short Circuit Identified as Probable Cause
Initial investigations indicate that the fire was triggered by a short circuit in the bus’s internal electrical wiring. Officials stated that there was no evidence of external interference or hazardous materials on board. A detailed technical inspection has been ordered to ascertain whether the electrical systems met safety standards and maintenance protocols.
Transport department officials are expected to examine maintenance records of the vehicle, including wiring inspections and fire safety equipment compliance.
Traffic Disruptions and Emergency Response
The incident caused temporary disruption to vehicular movement on the Gammon Bridge. Traffic police restricted movement on both sides of the bridge as emergency teams carried out firefighting and clearing operations. Vehicles were diverted through alternate routes until the burnt remains of the bus were removed and safety checks were completed.
Normal traffic was restored after several hours, following clearance from police and transport authorities.
Inquiry Ordered, Operator Under Scrutiny
Local police have registered a case and initiated an inquiry into the incident. Officials indicated that accountability would be fixed if negligence in vehicle maintenance or safety compliance is established. The bus operator may face action under relevant transport and safety regulations if violations are confirmed.
Authorities have reiterated that private travel operators must adhere strictly to prescribed safety norms, especially for long-distance night services.
Rising Concerns Over Private Bus Safety
The incident has once again highlighted the growing concern over fire safety in private passenger buses. Experts have consistently emphasized the need for regular electrical audits, proper insulation of wiring, installation of fire detection systems, and availability of functional fire extinguishers on board.
Passengers and civil society groups have urged authorities to enforce stricter inspections and periodic safety certifications to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Call for Stronger Safety Enforcement
The Gammon Bridge fire serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proactive safety enforcement in public transportation. While timely action prevented loss of life in this case, authorities have acknowledged that stronger preventive measures are necessary to ensure passenger safety across the state’s transport network.
