A fire broke out in a poolcar carrying 14 schoolchildren in Siliguri on Monday, creating panic among the passengers and locals. The incident occurred near Devidanga when the vehicle, transporting students from a private school in Matigara, was on its way to drop them off at their homes. A mechanical failure in the car is believed to have triggered the fire, which eventually destroyed the vehicle. Thankfully, no students were injured in the incident.
The driver of the poolcar acted quickly to ensure the safety of the students. Upon noticing the fire, he immediately evacuated all 14 children from the vehicle, preventing any casualties. The fire spread rapidly, but local residents quickly intervened, attempting to control the flames before fire services arrived. A fire truck and police from the main city police station reached the spot shortly after the incident was reported.
Local authorities have confirmed that no one was harmed during the incident. The car was completely destroyed in the fire, which caused significant damage. The school's administration and the guardians of the students were promptly notified and arrived at the scene to ensure the children's well-being.
This incident has raised concerns about the safety of students commuting in poolcars. While no casualties occurred, the fire highlights the risks associated with private transportation for schoolchildren. Investigations into the mechanical failure that caused the fire are underway.
A similar incident occurred last November in Panagarh, West Burdwan, where a fire broke out in an abandoned vehicle while children were playing inside. Four children were injured in that incident, and they were hospitalized for treatment.