How did 234 smartphones make Andhra bus fire more deadly?
Forensic experts suggested that the initial fire was believed to have started in the front section due to a fuel leak. But read here to find out exactly what it is.
The investigation into the Kurnool bus fire case took a new turn when a consignment of 234 smartphones worth Rs 46 lakh was found inside the bus. According to forensic experts, the exploding batteries of these phones contributed to the intensity of the fire that engulfed the bus and killed 19 passengers.
The smartphones were being sent in a package by a Hyderabad-based businessman named Manganath, who sent the consignment to an e-commerce company in Bengaluru. The phones were to be supplied to customers but fate had other plans. When the accident occurred on Friday morning, smartphones exploded, fueling the fire.
What exactly happened?
Forensic experts suggested that the initial fire was believed to have started in the front section due to a fuel leak. A bicycle became stuck under the bus and the resulting splash of gasoline combined with heat or sparks to ignite a fire that quickly consumed the entire vehicle. As General Manager Venkataraman stated, the heat was so intense that it melted the aluminum sheets on the floor of the bus.
Pointing to the catastrophic loss of life, Venkataraman said, “We saw bones and ashes falling through the melting layers.” he said. This terrible discovery at the scene reveals the seriousness of the accident. The general manager also pointed out a structural defect in the structure of the bus, which proved to be detrimental in an emergency.
Structural defect in bus construction
The use of lightweight aluminum instead of iron, a measure typically used to reduce vehicle weight and increase speed, increased the severity of the crash. This raises questions about safety measures and regulations for public transport. The investigation is ongoing and authorities are expected to review the bus’ construction and safety features.
The incident has sent shockwaves in the region and people are demanding stricter safety norms in public transport. The fact that the bus was carrying a large number of smartphones increased the severity of the fire and turned into a tragic accident that caused many casualties.
