A routine overnight journey became a major tragedy on the Yamuna Expressway when a sleeper coach caught fire in Greater Noida, killing nine passengers and injuring several others.
The private bus was travelling from Delhi towards Mahoba when the blaze broke out late Wednesday night. Reports said approximately 35 people were on board. The incident occurred near Dayanatpur village in the Jewar area of Gautam Buddh Nagar district.
According to officials, the fire was reported at approximately 11 pm. At the time, many passengers were asleep inside the sleeper bus. The sudden emergency left passengers with little time to react.
Smoke reportedly spread through the vehicle as flames intensified. Passengers rushed towards the available exits, while some climbed or jumped through windows in an attempt to escape. Reports described a chaotic scene as people tried to leave the burning bus.
A passenger quoted by Hindustan Times recalled being awakened after another person alerted passengers about the fire. The passenger said there was heavy smoke and that escaping the bus was difficult.
Emergency teams were quickly mobilised. Fire tenders reached the scene, while police and rescue personnel began evacuation and firefighting operations.
Officials later confirmed that nine passengers had died. According to DT Next, 20 passengers were rescued safely. Several other passengers were injured and taken for treatment.
The victims reportedly included people from different age groups. Some reports said women, elderly passengers and a child with disabilities were among those who died, though authorities were continuing the identification process.
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances leading to the fire. A preliminary assessment suggested a possible short circuit involving the air-conditioning system. However, investigators have not yet confirmed the precise cause.
The bus driver and conductor were arrested after the incident. Jewar police registered a case under provisions relating to culpable homicide. Investigators are examining whether the crew responded appropriately after the fire was noticed and whether passengers received adequate warning.
According to details cited from the FIR by Telegraph India, passengers had allegedly noticed a burning smell and smoke and informed the driver and helper. The report said the allegations include claims that their warnings were not acted upon promptly. These claims remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings.
The state government has ordered officials to ensure proper medical care for injured passengers. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences and directed officials to provide necessary assistance to the families affected by the incident.
The incident also raises broader questions about safety measures in sleeper buses. Emergency exits and windows need to remain accessible, fire extinguishers must be available and electrical and air-conditioning systems require regular inspection.
Because sleeper buses are frequently used for overnight travel, passengers may be asleep when an emergency occurs. This can make early detection and rapid evacuation particularly important.
Authorities are expected to continue examining the vehicle, collecting survivor statements and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the fire. The final findings will help establish how the blaze started, how it spread and whether any safety or operational failures contributed to the deaths.
