Major Accident Averted as PMPML Bus Catches Fire in Chakan MIDC, Passengers Safely Evacuated

A PMPML bus caught fire in Chakan MIDC but a major accident was averted after quick evacuation. Fire crews extinguished the blaze; probe underway.

Pune | 14 February, 2026- A potentially fatal incident was narrowly averted in the industrial belt of Chakan MIDC when a Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) city bus burst into flames while transporting passengers. The fire broke out on a main road in the industrial area, sparking panic among commuters and nearby motorists. Thanks to the swift actions of the driver, conductor, and passengers themselves, all those on board were evacuated safely before the situation escalated into a major catastrophe.

The dramatic scene unfolded in the late afternoon when the bus was en route through one of Chakan’s busiest industrial corridors. Passengers reported smelling smoke from the rear portion of the vehicle shortly before small flames were spotted near the engine compartment. Realising the urgency, the driver brought the bus to a sudden halt to prevent risk to others on the road, and both the driver and conductor began urging everyone to disembark immediately.

Within moments, all passengers -including workers heading home and local commuters — exited the vehicle and moved to a safe distance. Eyewitnesses praised the calm and efficient response, noting that what could have been a devastating accident was instead contained thanks to quick thinking and cooperation from those on board.

Fire services were alerted promptly and arrived at the scene with multiple units. Firefighters worked swiftly to douse the blaze, which had already engulfed the engine area and was threatening to spread to adjacent parts of the bus. After an intense firefighting effort, the fire was brought under control and completely extinguished. No casualties were reported, although several passengers were understandably shaken by the ordeal.

Initial assessments by investigating teams suggest that the fire originated in the bus’s engine compartment, possibly due to a mechanical fault or electrical short circuit. Officials emphasised that further investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause, and whether routine maintenance procedures were fully adhered to. A team of transport engineers and fire safety experts is expected to inspect the vehicle as part of a formal inquiry.

The incident has stirred concerns about vehicle maintenance standards and safety checks in the public transport fleet. A number of commuters and resident associations have called on local authorities to enhance preventive vehicle inspections, especially for buses plying long routes or carrying workers through industrial zones. Public transport officials have responded by stating that regular safety audits are carried out, but additional measures may be considered in the wake of this scare.

Traffic in and around the burn site was diverted for a short period as firefighters wrapped up their operations and cleared debris. Commuters faced minor delays, but authorities moved quickly to reopen the route and restore normal flow. Industrial establishments in the vicinity also cooperated with emergency crews to facilitate movement and ensure no workers were stranded.

While the fire raised immediate safety questions, the absence of injuries and the complete evacuation of passengers have been widely acknowledged as positive outcomes. The driver and conductor involved in the incident have been commended for their prompt response, and transport authorities indicated that official recognition may be given for their actions once the probe concludes.

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