An interprovincial passenger bus on the Bangkok–Nan route was completely destroyed after catching fire in Bang Rakam district of Phitsanulok province early Wednesday but all 21 passengers on board successfully escaped unharmed.
The fire broke out at about 2.10am at a petrol station on Highway 117 inbound to Phitsanulok near the Yang Ped police booth.
Wang Intok tambon administration organisation dispatched water trucks to assist firefighters after the blaze engulfed the air-conditioned bus, operated by Nakhon Chair Air Co.
Firefighters spent about 30 minutes bringing the flames under control, but the bus was extensively damaged.
No injuries or fatalities were reported. Authorities confirmed that all 21 passengers aboard the bus were safely evacuated.
Police investigators and forensic officers were sent to examine the scene.
Initial findings were that the fire was caused by an electrical short beneath the driver's seat, which triggered a burst that subsequently spread throughout the vehicle.
