Three Buses Gutted in Cumilla

A fire has engulfed three stationary air-conditioned buses at the Jangalia Bus Stand in Cumilla, reducing the vehicles to charred shells in a sudden blaze that broke out on Sunday afternoon.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:00 pm when thick black smoke was seen rising from the bus yard, prompting transport workers and bystanders to rush to the scene. Two firefighting units from the Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence were quickly deployed and managed to bring the fire under control after an intense effort. Although the flames were eventually extinguished, all three buses sustained extensive damage.

The affected vehicles belonged to Royal Coach Transport and had reportedly been out of service for some time due to mechanical faults. Local accounts suggest that the buses had been parked at the terminal for repair or storage purposes prior to the incident.

Despite the swift response, the fire had already consumed most of the buses’ interiors. Only the metal frames and partially damaged seating structures remained intact after the blaze was brought under control. Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported.

Eyewitnesses offered differing accounts regarding the possible cause of the fire. Some local transport workers alleged that the idle buses had occasionally been used as informal gathering spots. A few witnesses claimed that individuals had been seen entering and exiting the vehicles shortly before the fire broke out. However, these claims have not been independently verified.

Speculation has also emerged locally that the blaze may have been triggered accidentally, possibly due to a gas lighter or another ignition source inside one of the vehicles. Authorities have not confirmed any cause at this stage and have emphasised that the investigation remains ongoing.

A representative from the Cumilla EPZ Police Outpost stated that both police and fire service teams are examining the scene to determine the origin of the fire. Investigators are reportedly considering all possibilities, including accidental ignition and external interference.

Fire Service officials noted that while the damage was severe, there were no injuries or fatalities. However, they added that the exact financial loss and the precise origin of the fire could not be immediately established due to the extent of the destruction.

Incident Summary

Authorities have assured that a detailed report will be prepared once forensic examination and witness statements are completed. The incident has raised renewed concerns over the security and monitoring of idle vehicles at transport terminals in the region.