Greater Noida – Late last night a sleeper bus travelling the Yamuna Expressway caught fire close to the Jewar Airport, resulting in nine fatalities and numerous burn injuries. Emergency crews, police and local officials rushed to the scene for a massive rescue effort.

What led to the disaster?

According to early reports, the vehicle had set off from Kashmiri Gate, Delhi, bound for Rath in Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh, carrying roughly 30‑35 passengers. Around 11:30 p.m., it was approaching kilometre 33 on the expressway, heading from Noida toward Agra, when occupants began to notice a strong, acrid odor inside the cabin.

Passenger Sunil Kumar of Rath filed a complaint stating that the driver and conductor were informed of the smell, yet the bus was not stopped for a thorough check. Moments later, flames erupted near the driver’s seat, quickly engulfing the entire vehicle and giving passengers barely any time to flee.

Casualties and immediate response

The inferno claimed nine passengers’ lives while injuring several others with severe burns. The sudden blaze also caused panic among motorists travelling the expressway, and a video of the burning bus circulated widely on social media.

Jewar police arrived promptly, launching rescue and relief operations, securing the bodies for further legal procedures. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Official reactions

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and ordered that the injured receive immediate medical care and comprehensive assistance.

President Droupadi Murmu posted on X, describing the incident as “deeply distressing” and extending her sympathy to the victims’ relatives, while wishing a swift recovery to the wounded.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also conveyed his grief, labeling the tragedy “heart‑breaking” and pledging support for the affected families.

Prime Minister’s ex‑gratia announcement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the loss of life and announced financial relief from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund: ₹2 lakh for each family of the deceased and ₹50,000 for every injured passenger.

“Our thoughts are with the families and survivors. The government will ensure timely assistance,” the Prime Minister said.