Recently released footage on social media captures the most intense moments of a fire that broke out Friday night on a public transportation bus operating on Route P16 near the entrance to Santiago de las Vegas, in Havana's Boyeros municipality. This video, shared by eyewitnesses in the Facebook group "ACCIDENTES BUSES Y CAMIONES...", reveals thick white smoke billowing from the rear of the bus as passengers hurriedly evacuated the vehicle.
The Havana Provincial Transport Company confirmed that the incident involved a "fire outbreak" on bus number 8188, which belongs to the Mulgoba Terminal. Fortunately, there were no injuries or significant structural damage reported. "Thanks to the quick actions of the driver using an extinguisher, along with help from local residents and the fire brigade, the blaze was swiftly extinguished," the company stated in a Facebook post.
According to official reports, the fire was caused by a broken hose, resulting in an oil spill onto hot engine components, which produced the large plume of white smoke. Although this incident didn't result in casualties or significant material losses, it adds to a series of recent fires involving Cuban public transport buses.
Authorities acknowledge that the deteriorating condition of the vehicle fleet and the poor quality of fuel contribute to these hazardous situations. Earlier in February, bus number 5005 from the UEB Terminal Playa was engulfed in flames due to an electrical system short circuit. In that case, the prompt response of firefighters also prevented any injuries.
Soon after, a separate incident involved a Transtur bus carrying 20 Czech tourists near the Topes de Collantes viewpoint in Sancti Spíritus. While all passengers escaped unharmed, the bus was completely destroyed by fire, and the travelers lost some of their belongings.
Understanding the Risks of Public Transport in Cuba
What caused the recent bus fire in Havana?
The fire was caused by a broken hose that led to an oil spill onto hot engine components, producing a significant amount of white smoke.
Were there any injuries reported in the bus fire?
No injuries were reported, thanks to the quick response of the bus driver, local residents, and the fire brigade.
What factors contribute to bus fires in Cuba?
The deteriorating condition of the vehicle fleet and the low quality of fuel are significant factors contributing to these dangerous incidents.