The investigation into Thursday's sleeper bus fire on the Yamuna Expressway near Jewar Airport is focusing on what happened after passengers first noticed signs of smoke and a burning smell.
According to the FIR, passengers alerted the driver and helper but they allegedly did not respond promptly. The FIR also records an allegation that the driver and staff were smoking inside the driver's cabin. The case has been registered under provisions related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder and rash and negligent driving.
The bus, operated by Raj Kalpana Travels, had left Kashmere Gate for Mahoba. It entered the Noida Expressway at around 11.30 pm and travelled about 33 kilometres before smoke was reportedly noticed coming from the driver's cabin.
Passengers raised alarm as smoke appeared
Statements recorded by police indicate that passengers noticed a burning smell and smoke while the bus was moving along the expressway.
The FIR alleges that the driver and helper continued for some time despite passengers drawing their attention to the problem. It also states that the staff did not carry out a spot inspection.
The allegation that people were smoking inside the driver's cabin is also part of the FIR and will be examined as investigators try to establish how the fire began and whether it could have been detected earlier.
As the fire spread through the sleeper bus, smoke reportedly filled the enclosed passenger area, sharply reducing visibility.
Some passengers escaped by jumping out
Several occupants managed to get out of the bus after the fire broke out, with some passengers jumping from the vehicle to escape the flames, according to statements recorded by police.
Others could not get out in time. Thick smoke made it difficult for passengers inside the sleeper coach to see and reach the exits. Those seated or sleeping towards the front were among those who suffered burn injuries, according to the statements.
Nine passengers died in the fire.
The investigation will now examine the sequence of events from the first reports of a burning smell and smoke to the moment the flames spread through the bus. Investigators will also look into the conduct of the driver and other staff, including the allegations recorded in the FIR, as they establish how the fire started and how the passengers attempted to escape.
CM condoles deaths
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the incident and extended his condolences to the families of those who died in the fire.
The CM directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured and to provide all possible assistance to the families of the deceased after communicating with them, according to an official statement.
Adityanath also wished the injured a speedy recovery.