Malkangiri, Mar 21: Several passengers including Chitrakonda MLA Mangu Khilla had a narrow escape after a passenger bus they were travelling in caught fire near Ramabhadrapuram in Andhra Pradesh.

According to eyewitness accounts, flames erupted unexpectedly inside the vehicle, quickly engulfing parts of the bus.

Panic spread among the passengers, but fortunately, everyone managed to evacuate in time. The MLA, along with other passengers, escaped without injury.

Local sources reported that the fire spread rapidly, reducing the bus to ashes within minutes. However, the quick reaction of passengers and the driver’s alertness ensured that no lives were lost. Authorities have confirmed that all passengers are safe, and no casualties have been reported.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Preliminary suspicions point to a possible electrical short circuit or mechanical fault, but officials have not ruled out other factors.

Police and fire services have begun an investigation to establish the exact reason behind the blaze.

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The incident has raised concerns about passenger safety and vehicle maintenance standards, especially on interstate routes where buses often travel long distances. The MLA’s presence on the bus has drawn significant public attention, with many expressing relief that he and the other passengers escaped unharmed.

Authorities have assured that safety checks will be intensified to prevent such accidents in the future.