Over 100 passengers escape unhurt after bus catches fire near Khanna
Passengers Escape Unhurt After Bus Catches Fire Near Khanna
Ravinder Singh | Babushahi Bureau
Khanna (Punjab), June 21, 2026: A major tragedy was narrowly averted on the National Highway near Bija, close to Khanna in Punjab, when a private passenger bus carrying more than 100 people, including women and children, caught fire while en route to Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
The incident triggered panic among passengers and motorists as flames quickly engulfed the vehicle, creating chaos on the busy highway. However, all passengers were safely evacuated before the fire could cause any casualties.
Upon receiving information about the incident, officials from the district administration, local police and the Fire Brigade rushed to the spot. Firefighters launched an extensive operation and managed to bring the blaze under control after considerable effort. By then, however, the bus had been extensively damaged.
According to preliminary information, the bus was travelling from Ludhiana towards Uttar Pradesh and Bihar when the fire broke out. The exact cause of the blaze has not yet been determined.
Speaking to the media, the SDM of Khanna confirmed that no injuries or fatalities were reported and that all passengers had been rescued safely.
“The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. A detailed investigation has been ordered, and strict action will be taken if any negligence is found,” the SDM said.
Authorities have launched a probe to determine whether the fire was caused by a mechanical fault, electrical malfunction or any other reason. The incident briefly disrupted traffic on the highway before normal movement was restored.