64 Lives Lost in Bus Fires Across India Over 3 Years: Rajasthan Worst Affected
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At least 64 people have tragically lost their lives in 45 bus fire incidents across India over the past three years, with Rajasthan bearing the brunt of the fatalities. According to the Electronic Detailed Accident Report (eDAR) system, 45 people died in bus fire incidents in Rajasthan alone during this period. Maharashtra topped the list of states with the highest number of bus fire incidents, at nine, followed by Madhya Pradesh with eight. Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka each reported six such incidents. The Union government has taken steps to address this issue, including revising Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 119 norms in 2016 to enhance bus safety. The revised norms mandate two fire extinguishers, four exits for buses up to 12 meters in length, and a fire detection and suppression system in engines. Additionally, the government has made it mandatory for buses with a passenger capacity above 22 to adhere to these rules, effective from September 2025. Recent incidents, such as the massive pile-up on the Yamuna Expressway in Mathura that claimed 13 lives, and a bus collision in Andhra Pradesh that resulted in 25 fatalities, highlight the need for continued efforts to improve bus safety. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has taken several measures to address this critical issue.
