Fire Erupts in Parked Bus, Causing Local Alarm

In a concerning incident late on Friday night, a parked bus at Sonapur Bus Stand in Noakhali district caught fire, leaving local residents shaken. According to eyewitnesses, the blaze damaged several seats inside the vehicle, although fortunately no passengers were on board at the time. Authorities and onlookers confirmed that the bus had been stationary by the roadside when the fire broke out.

Locals reported that the affected bus belonged to Suborno Super Express Service and had been parked on the northern side of Sonapur Bus Stand. The driver and his assistant had left the vehicle in the evening, closing all doors and windows before stepping out for a meal. Around 9:45 pm, passengers travelling by a nearby CNG-run auto-rickshaw noticed smoke and flames emerging from the bus interior. They immediately alerted local residents, who rushed to the scene and successfully contained the fire using water. Despite their efforts, four to five seats were completely destroyed.

Sudharam Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Mohammad Tauhidul Islam, said, “Four to five seats inside the bus were burnt due to the fire. Preliminary reports suggest that the blaze may have been caused by a mosquito coil that the driver had left burning inside the bus while he went outside for dinner. However, we are thoroughly investigating all possible causes.”

This is not the first instance of a bus fire in Noakhali. On 3 December, three double-decker buses parked at the Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) depot in North Sonapur were set ablaze, resulting in two buses being completely destroyed and one partially damaged.

The recent incidents have heightened concerns among residents about the safety of buses in the district. Local authorities have assured the public that measures are being strengthened to enhance security across bus stands and parking areas. Officials are reportedly reviewing fire safety protocols and implementing additional precautions to prevent such alarming events in the future.

As the investigation continues, commuters and locals alike are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near parked buses. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of strict fire safety practices, particularly in public transport hubs where even a small lapse can escalate into a serious emergency.