A Kisumu bound bus belonging to Ena Couch service bus burst into flames along the Nakuru – Nairobi highway while at Limuru area.
The bus, ferrying passengers from Nairobi, burst into flames, on Tuesday, December 12, causing unrest among the passengers.
Reportedly, the bus caught fire after a loud bang was heard under the driver’s seat. The passengers then immediately began scampering for safety.
The passengers stated that they panicked after smoke filled the air forcing some of them to jump out of the bus through the window, while it was still moving.
Some of the passengers who jumped out sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital.
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Driver Gives Account of the Incident
According to the bus driver, Shadrack Kiplagat, when he heard the bang, he slowed down and stopped at Limuru.
Further, he added that he noticed that some of the passengers were escaping through the window because of panic and decided to stop.
Shortly after, onlookers and well-wishers arrived at the scene to help them put out the fire and safely evacuate the passengers.
“I heard a loud explosion behind my seat and saw smoke. Some passengers panicked and began escaping through the windows.
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“I was able to stop the vehicle and told the passengers to evacuate including through the windows,” he stated.
Notably, all 47 passengers travelling in the bus were able to exit the bus before severe injuries. However, those who sustained injuries were rushed to the hospital.
Passengers Plead with Ena Coach Bus Management
At the same time, the passengers urged the bus management to prioritize the safety of their passengers by routinely servicing buses before long distance travel.
One of the passengers stated that they still could not figure out what caused the fire but pleaded with the bus company to ensure that such incidences do not occur.
“I plead with the saccos that before a vehicle embarks on a journey, conduct a routine maintenance to ensure the safety of all passengers,” added the passenger.
