A Switch Mobility double-decker wet lease bus caught fire near its high voltage battery system at the Colaba Depot in Mumbai on Tuesday morning.
As per the BEST officials, the bus, registered MH-43-CE-1709, was proceeding to Backbay Depot from Bhatia Baug when the fire erupted.
Initial observations indicate the blaze originated near the front left side tyre, precisely where the high voltage battery is situated. This points to the battery system as a critical area of focus for any subsequent investigation.
Upon the discovery of the fire, the bus conductor promptly informed the Fire Brigade and Police. Fire Brigade personnel arrived swiftly at the scene and immediately began efforts to extinguish the flames.
Crucially, no personal injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The event was communicated to the Deputy Engineer of Bus Control for necessary action.
Currently, BEST which is the transport arm of Mumbai's civic body boasts of around 950 electric buses, including about 50 double deckers from Switch Mobility.