Jaipur, Aug 11 (IANS) A private school bus carrying around 25 children caught fire near Dhauva village in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer on Tuesday, said officials, adding that all were saved and there were no casualties or injuries. According to the officials, the bus was travelling through the area to pick up students from nearby rural areas when smoke suddenly began billowing from the engine compartment. Within seconds, flames erupted, triggering panic among the children and staff.The driver immediately pulled the bus over to the roadside and, along with the bus staff, evacuated all 25 children to safety.Their prompt action helped avert what could have been a major tragedy. The fire spread rapidly, and within minutes the entire bus was engulfed in flames and reduced to a charred wreck.

The bus was reportedly approaching Dhauva village when smoke was first noticed coming from the engine area. As soon as the fire was detected, the driver stopped the vehicle and ensured that every child was safely evacuated. Just minutes after the children were moved away from the bus, the flames engulfed the entire vehicle. Families and local residents breathed a sigh of relief after learning that all the children had escaped unharmed.Villagers immediately informed the local administration and fire department about the incident. Fire tenders from the Jaisalmer Municipal Council reached the spot, and firefighters began efforts to bring the blaze under control.

After sustained efforts, the fire was extinguished. However, by then, the bus had been completely gutted.A short circuit in the vehicle’s electrical system is suspected to be the initial cause of the fire.The exact cause is yet to be confirmed. Police and the relevant departments are investigating the incident. Fortunately, no children or staff members sustained physical injuries.The incident has once again raised concerns about fire safety equipment, vehicle maintenance and mandatory fitness inspections for school buses.Parents have called for stricter mechanical and electrical inspections of school vehicles in the district to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

/IANS