A bus transporting pilgrims from Rajasthan back from the Shri Amarnath Yatra caught fire on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway near Karol in Ramban district. Fortunately, all passengers were safely evacuated, averting a potential disaster. The Jammu and Kashmir administration promptly arranged alternative transportation for the pilgrims to continue their journey back to Rajasthan.
The pilgrims, hailing from Dhakarda village in Rajasthan’s Salumbar district, were returning after visiting the Amarnath cave shrine. Tragically, the bus was engulfed in flames due to a burst rear tire while passing through the Ramban area. The fire destroyed not only the bus but also the passengers’ belongings, including cash, clothes, and important documents.
Following the tire burst, a fire broke out in the bus, causing smoke to fill the vehicle and panic among the passengers. Quick action by the driver, local residents, and emergency responders ensured the safe evacuation of all individuals before the fire consumed the bus entirely. Although the pilgrims escaped unharmed, they lost all their possessions in the blaze.
Authorities, including the police, fire services, highway officials, and district administration, swiftly responded to the scene to contain the fire. Despite their efforts, the bus was left severely damaged by the flames. The rescued pilgrims received immediate assistance, such as first aid and drinking water, as their belongings were lost, and alternative transport was arranged for their journey back to Rajasthan.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reassured the public of the pilgrims’ safety after reviewing the situation with officials. He instructed the Ramban district administration to provide necessary aid to the pilgrims and ensure their safe return to Rajasthan. The district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan and Senior Superintendent of Police Arun Gupta, successfully rescued all passengers and facilitated their onward travel.
