The incident took place at around 4.25am, according to local sources. The fire broke out while the bus was stationary in the area, with the driver asleep inside the vehicle.
After noticing the fire, the driver began shouting for help, alerting people nearby. Local residents rushed towards the bus and contacted the Fire Service by mobile phone. Firefighters subsequently arrived at the scene and worked to bring the blaze under control.
Although the fire was eventually extinguished, parts of the bus’s interior were damaged. The incident could have had more serious consequences, as the driver was inside the vehicle when the fire started. His timely response and the intervention of local residents helped him escape without being trapped in the burning bus.
The circumstances surrounding the incident have raised questions about how the fire started and whether the vehicle was deliberately targeted. Police have indicated that the bus was set on fire by miscreants.
Officer-in-Charge of Khagrachhari Sadar Police Station, Md Kay Kislু, said miscreants were responsible for setting fire to the bus. He added that police were investigating the incident and would take legal action in connection with the arson.
Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances of the fire to establish how it started and identify those responsible. However, no further details about the suspects or the motive behind the incident were provided in the initial account.
The incident has also highlighted the potential dangers of setting fire to parked vehicles, particularly when drivers or other people may still be inside. Even a fire involving a stationary vehicle can quickly become life-threatening if it spreads before those nearby become aware of it.
Police said the matter was under investigation, with further legal steps to follow based on the findings.
