A Modern Coast bus traveling from Nairobi to Kampala caught fire on Saturday near the Gilgil Weighbridge along the Naivasha-Nakuru highway. The bus was carrying 23 passengers when the incident occurred, but all passengers were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported.
The incident, which caused significant alarm, happened on a busy stretch of the highway. Witnesses said that passengers noticed smoke coming from the rear of the bus and quickly alerted the driver. The driver acted swiftly, pulling over and assisting passengers in exiting the vehicle before the fire spread.
Local authorities, including officers from the Gilgil Police Station, arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. Emergency services worked to contain the fire and prevent further damage to the highway and surrounding areas.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, but police have launched an investigation. Preliminary assessments suggest that a mechanical issue may have triggered the blaze, though this has not yet been confirmed.
Modern Coast has not issued a formal statement regarding the incident, but the company is expected to cooperate with investigators to determine the exact cause of the fire.
The quick evacuation and absence of injuries were praised by witnesses and first responders, who credited the driver and passengers for their calm and coordinated actions during the emergency.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety standards for long-distance buses in the region. Passengers expressed relief that no one was hurt but called for regular maintenance and stricter safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Naivasha-Nakuru highway, a vital route connecting Kenya to Uganda, is heavily trafficked by commercial and passenger vehicles. Authorities have urged transport companies to ensure that their vehicles are well-maintained and meet safety regulations to protect passengers and other road users.
As investigations continue, authorities have assured the public that they will work to identify and address any safety lapses that may have contributed to the fire. Passengers are also encouraged to report any concerns about vehicle conditions before boarding long-distance buses.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness during travel. Despite the alarming situation, the swift response helped avert what could have been a tragic accident.