A moving passenger microbus was engulfed in flames following a sudden engine-related fire on the Dhaka–Aricha Highway in Savar on Tuesday, 9 June. The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 pm in the Bishmile Cantonment area on the Dhaka-bound lane, triggering brief panic among motorists and commuters travelling along the busy arterial route.
According to eyewitness accounts, the fire originated abruptly from the engine compartment of the Noah-type microbus while it was still in motion. Passengers and road users nearby reported seeing smoke billowing from the front section of the vehicle, prompting the driver to react swiftly. Demonstrating quick presence of mind, the driver pulled the vehicle over to the side of the highway and evacuated immediately, ensuring that all occupants exited safely before the situation escalated.
Within minutes of stopping, the fire intensified and rapidly spread throughout the vehicle, eventually engulfing the entire microbus. The blaze created alarm among other road users, with several motorists reportedly slowing down or stopping at a safe distance to avoid potential danger. Despite the intensity of the fire, no casualties or injuries were reported.
Two units of the Fire Service and Civil Defence were dispatched promptly to the scene after being alerted. Firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after coordinated efforts, but the vehicle had already been completely burnt beyond recognition by the time the fire was extinguished.
Following the incident, traffic movement on that section of the highway experienced temporary disruption and slowdowns. However, authorities confirmed that normal traffic flow was restored shortly afterwards. Law enforcement and highway officials later removed the damaged vehicle from the scene to facilitate the reopening of the road and ensure commuter safety.
Officials have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Preliminary assessments suggest a possible technical fault originating in the engine compartment, although no definitive conclusion has yet been reached. The extent of material loss is also being evaluated.
A spokesperson from Savar Highway Police confirmed that the Fire Service responded quickly and successfully controlled the situation. He further noted that the burnt vehicle has been taken into custody for inspection and that relevant procedures are ongoing to establish the cause of the incident.
Comments