Rajasthan Fire: Major Tragedy Averted as Alert Driver and Locals Save Students After School Van Catches Fire Near Bundi Collectorate

A major tragedy was narrowly averted outside the Bundi district collectorate when a private school van suddenly caught fire, triggering panic in the area. Fortunately, due to the alertness of local residents and the presence of mind shown by the driver, all the schoolchildren travelling in the van were safely evacuated in time, preventing any loss of life. According to information received, the van was ferrying students home after school hours. It was carrying several children and was fitted with an LPG gas cylinder, which is considered extremely hazardous from a safety perspective and poses serious risks during daily operations.

The incident occurred when the van stopped at a petrol pump near the district collectorate to refuel with diesel. As the driver attempted to move the vehicle forward, a sudden short circuit triggered a fire in the front portion of the van. Flames and thick smoke caused chaos, prompting immediate action. The driver quickly halted the vehicle and ensured that all children were taken out safely and moved to a secure location nearby. On seeing the fire, people in the vicinity rushed to help, using water and available fire extinguishers to control the blaze until firefighters arrived and completely doused the flames.

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The incident has once again raised serious concerns over the safety standards of privately operated school vans that often flout regulations. Transporting children in vehicles fitted with LPG cylinders is clearly dangerous and unacceptable. Had the children not been evacuated promptly, the situation could have turned catastrophic. Following the incident, parents and local residents expressed strong anger and demanded strict action. They urged authorities to conduct regular inspections of school vehicles and penalise those violating safety norms. Although all children are safe, the incident serves as a stark warning for the future.