Yamuna Expressway Accident Probe: Heavy Fog for 6 Km, Short Circuit Triggered Fire After Impact

New Delhi: The investigation team has prepared its first report regarding the horrific accident that occurred on Tuesday morning on Yamuna Expressway. This accident happened at Milestone 127 around 4 am. Investigation has revealed that at that time there was a very dense fog in the area for about six kilometers, but despite this the speed of the vehicles was not reduced.

How was the situation on the expressway at the time of the accident?

According to officials associated with the investigation, visibility was almost negligible at the place where the collision occurred. Even in such a bad condition, buses and other vehicles were moving at high speed. Due to fog, nothing was clearly visible in front, and due to this, the vehicles kept colliding with each other.

What is believed to be the real cause of the fire?

Investigation has revealed that after the collision, there was a short circuit in one of the buses, which caused the fire. Within a few minutes, the fire engulfed other vehicles parked nearby. At present it is not clear which vehicle caught fire first, because several vehicles started burning simultaneously.

How many vehicles were burnt, and how much damage was caused?

In this accident, six sleeper buses, two roadway buses, and a car were completely burnt. The most painful thing was that 19 people were burnt alive, while more than 100 people were injured. The condition of many injured still remains critical.

What did the investigation team see on the spot?

The seven-member committee formed on the instructions of the government visited the Khandauli toll plaza several times from Wednesday to the accident site and took stock of the situation. The team collected evidence from the spot and spoke to the injured as well as the bus drivers and conductors. Technical teams from different departments have also given their initial opinion to the inquiry committee.

Why is fog being considered a major reason for the accident?

The investigation team says that the fog was normal till Khandauli toll plaza, but beyond that suddenly the fog became very dense. Visibility was almost zero in a stretch of about six kilometers. Meanwhile, this major accident occurred due to the vehicles not reducing their speed.

Why did it take more time to submit the report?

Experts' opinion is being sought on which bus caught fire first, how the fire spread, and what impact the geographical location of the incident had on all these points. For this reason the investigation committee has asked for additional time of 24 hours.

What will happen next now?

According to DM CP Singh, the investigation has revealed some technical aspects that require further investigation. In the final report, along with the reasons for the accident, measures to avoid such accidents in the future will also be mentioned. This report will be submitted to the government on Monday.