What Caused the Jaisalmer Bus Fire? CIRT to Conduct Technical Audit
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident, a bus fire in Jaipur has resulted in 22 fatalities. The Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) is stepping in to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragedy. This article explores the findings and the actions being taken to ensure such a disaster never happens again.
Key Takeaways
- The CIRT is investigating the tragic bus fire in Jaipur.
- 22 lives were lost in the incident.
- Serious flaws in the bus's safety features were identified.
- The Transport Department is taking proactive measures to enhance bus safety.
- Ongoing inspections have led to numerous seizures of non-compliant buses.
Jaipur, Oct 17 (NationPress) A thorough technical examination is set to be carried out by the Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) from Pune regarding the tragic fire incident in Jaipur that resulted in the loss of 22 lives and left numerous others injured, as reported by officials on Friday.
The CIRT team will visit the scene to uncover the fire's origin, establish accountability, evaluate technical shortcomings, and propose measures to avert similar occurrences in the future.
The findings will be presented to the state government.
A dedicated five-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) from Jaipur, headed by Joint Transport Commissioner O.P. Bunkar, has already conducted an on-site examination of the recent bus fire incident in Jaisalmer. The team scrutinized the debris and explored technical factors to ascertain the cause of the calamity, officials confirmed on Friday.
To avert future tragedies, the Transport Department has made the decision to rigorously inspect bus manufacturing companies.
A special oversight committee has been established to audit workshops and factories involved in the construction of bus bodies.
Joint Commissioner Bunkar stressed that 'substandard manufacturing practices' could significantly contribute to the accident, asserting, "Serious technical defects have been discovered, and we are implementing measures to ensure accountability and stricter adherence to regulations."
During the inspection, multiple serious flaws were detected in the ill-fated bus, officials reported. The emergency exit was undersized and blocked by two installed seats, rendering it inaccessible in an emergency. The bus's length exceeded regulatory limits, and an excessive number of sleeper seats were fitted. The curtains used were highly flammable, which exacerbated the fire's rapid spread.
Such violations severely impeded rescue operations and are being recorded in the official report.
Bunkar also provided updates on ongoing inspections statewide. Approximately 1,400 sleeper buses have been evaluated so far, leading to the seizure of 162 buses for various violations. There are around 3,200 AC buses registered in the state, with five private AC buses in Jaisalmer alone being confiscated for non-compliance with traffic and safety regulations.
The SIT also reviewed the facilities of KK Travels, the company responsible for the bus involved in the fire. Out of 66 buses in the yard, 35 were inspected, revealing 10 with significant defects in their body structure. These buses were reportedly manufactured under the label "Voluntary" and are currently under investigation.
The SIT, formed by the Transport and Road Safety Department Headquarters, comprises O.P. Bunkar, Additional Transport Commissioner (Administration) and Joint Secretary to the Government, Dharmendra Kumar, Regional Transport Officer-II, Ravi Soni, Executive Director (Mechanical) of Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation, Hanuman Singh, Joint General Manager of Central Workshop, Jodhpur, and Navneet Batad, Motor Vehicle Inspector.
The team concluded its site inspection on Thursday and returned to Jaipur on Friday morning. Their findings will be compiled into a comprehensive report to be submitted to the Rajasthan government.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the severity of the recent bus fire incident in Jaisalmer. The loss of lives is tragic and calls for immediate action. The establishment of a dedicated investigation team and the commitment to rigorous inspections signal a proactive approach towards ensuring public safety on our roads.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CIRT's role in the investigation?
The CIRT will conduct a technical audit to determine the cause of the bus fire, assess accountability, and recommend measures to prevent future incidents.
How many buses have been inspected following the incident?
Approximately 1,400 sleeper buses have been inspected, leading to the seizure of 162 buses due to various violations.
What serious flaws were found in the bus involved in the fire?
The bus had an undersized emergency exit blocked by seats, exceeded length limits, had too many sleeper seats, and flammable curtains that contributed to the fire's rapid spread.
What actions are being taken against the bus manufacturing companies?
The Transport Department is rigorously inspecting bus body manufacturing companies and has formed a special committee to audit workshops involved in bus body construction.
Who is leading the Special Investigation Team?
The SIT is led by Joint Transport Commissioner O.P. Bunkar and includes several key officials from the Transport and Road Safety Department.
