Fire engulfs MSRTC E-Shivai bus on Monday
The corporation currently operates around 1,256 electric buses, a significant number of which are based in Pune. Its plan to induct more than 5,000 electric buses has been delayed, while its long-term target is to convert its entire fleet of 16,000 buses to electric by 2035. The incident has raised concerns over maintenance and safety as MSRTC expands its electric bus fleet.
The E-Shivai bus, carrying 17 passengers from Solapur, caught fire just metres from Swargate while returning to the depot. No casualties were reported.
The alert driver pulled over after noticing smoke and immediately told all passengers to disembark. We will be able to share more details once it is received,” Pune divisional controller Arun Siya told TOI . Pune: Initial investigation into Monday’s fire involving an MSRTC electric bus near Swargate bus depot has pointed to rats chewing through electrical wires, potentially causing a short circuit. However, a detailed technical report is awaited to establish the exact cause. “The initial probe points towards rat bites damaging the wires. However, the investigation is under way, and we are awaiting the technical report. The contractor operating the vehicle has also initiated inspections alongside the transport utility’s investigation. He added that action could be initiated against those responsible for maintenance if the final investigation confirms that rat-chewed wires caused the fire.