A new video circulated on social media reveals the most dramatic moments of the fire that occurred on Friday night in a public transport bus serving the P16 route at the entrance of Santiago de las Vegas, in the municipal area of Boyeros.
The recording, shared by eyewitnesses in the Facebook group "ACCIDENTES BUSES Y CAMIONES...", shows a thick white cloud of smoke emerging from the back of the vehicle while the passengers evacuated the bus.
The Provincial Transport Company of Havana confirmed that it was a "small fire" in bus number 8188, belonging to the Mulgoba Terminal, and stated that no injuries or serious structural damage were reported.
"Thanks to the prompt action of the driver with the extinguisher, the local residents, and the fire department, the fire was extinguished quickly," the company stated in a statement published on its Facebook page.
According to official information, the incident was caused by a broken hose, which resulted in an oil spill on hot engine components, generating a large emission of white smoke.
Although this incident did not result in any casualties or significant material losses, it adds to a series of recent fires on buses in Cuba's public transportation system.
Authorities acknowledge that the deterioration of the vehicle fleet and the low quality of fuel are factors contributing to these dangerous incidents.
In February of this year, a bus identified as number 5005, belonging to UEB Terminal Playa, was consumed by flames following a short circuit in its electrical system. On that occasion, the quick intervention of the firefighters also prevented any injuries.
Shortly thereafter, another incident involved a Transtur bus transporting 20 Czech tourists near the viewpoint of Topes de Collantes, in Sancti Spíritus. Although all passengers were unharmed, the vehicle was completely burned, and the travelers lost some of their luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bus Fire in Havana
What caused the fire on the bus in Havana?
The fire on the bus in Havana was caused by the rupture of a hose, which led to an oil spill on hot engine components, creating a large emission of white smoke. Incidents of this nature are common due to the deterioration of the vehicle fleet and the poor quality of fuel in Cuba.
Were there any injuries in the bus fire in Havana?
No injuries were reported in the bus fire on route P16 in Havana. Thanks to the quick action of the driver, the neighbors, and the firefighters, the fire was brought under control swiftly.
What measures are the authorities taking to prevent fires on buses in Cuba?
Although Cuban authorities acknowledge that the deterioration of the vehicle fleet and the poor quality of fuel are factors contributing to these dangerous incidents, no concrete measures have been disclosed to prevent these fires. The lack of proper maintenance and the aging of the fleet are ongoing challenges within Cuba's public transportation system.
Are these types of incidents common in Cuban public transportation?
Yes, fires in public transportation vehicles are common in Cuba, which raises significant concern among the citizens. These incidents are attributed to issues such as the poor condition of the vehicle fleet, the low quality of fuel, and the lack of proper maintenance.
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