Istanbul, January 27 – A fire broke out in the engine section of a metrobus at the Altunizade Metrobus Station in Üsküdar yesterday evening, causing a temporary disruption in services. The incident, which occurred around 8:45 PM, saw flames emanating from the motor of the 34 FCU 307 plate metrobus, driven by Mehmet Y., while it was dropping off passengers.
Quick Response Prevents Escalation
The metrobus driver, Mehmet Y., immediately noticed the flames and successfully used a fire extinguisher to control the blaze before it could spread. Following the driver’s prompt action, emergency services, including fire brigades and police teams, were dispatched to the scene after being alerted by bystanders.
Firefighters conducted cooling operations on the affected metrobus engine. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among the passengers or staff during the incident. The rapid response from both the driver and emergency crews was crucial in preventing a more serious situation.
Brief Disruption to Metrobus Services
The fire led to a short-term interruption in metrobus services in the area. However, after the damaged metrobus was removed from the scene by a tow truck, normal operations resumed. The incident was captured on mobile phones by people in the vicinity, with footage showing flames rising from the vehicle’s engine compartment.
Investigation Underway
While the immediate cause of the fire has not been officially released, authorities are expected to conduct an investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the engine catching fire. Such incidents, though rare, highlight the importance of regular maintenance and swift emergency protocols in public transportation systems.
This event follows other recent fire incidents in Istanbul, including a fire at a dervish lodge in Fatih on January 22nd, and vehicle fires in other districts on January 24th, serving as a reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness.
The Üsküdar metrobus system is a vital part of Istanbul’s public transport network, serving thousands of commuters daily. Ensuring the safety and reliability of these services remains a top priority for the city’s transport authorities.
