5 Buses Hit as Fire Rips Through CNT Depot in Forest-Side

A major fire broke out at the National Transport Corporation (CNT) depot in the early hours of Monday, 26 January, leaving two buses completely destroyed and three others damaged. The blaze was discovered around 1:00 am by a security guard who raised the alarm after spotting smoke rising from the yard.

Although firefighters arrived swiftly, two vehicles were already engulfed in flames and could not be saved.

Their rapid intervention, however, successfully contained the fire before it could spread to further vehicles or the depot’s infrastructure.

Damage and Operational Impact

Dr Harvin Soonarane, Director of the CNT, confirmed the extent of the loss, noting that while two buses are a total write-off, the remaining three will undergo expert examination to assess the fire damage.

Despite the significant material and logistical losses—estimated to cost several million rupees (MUR)—no injuries were reported as the depot was closed at the time of the incident.

Dr Soonarane assured that the company is working to assess the damage and return the repairable vehicles to service as quickly as possible.

Police Investigation Underway

Police have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the outbreak. Authorities stated that arson has not been ruled out, and specialist officers are set to examine the scene to establish whether the fire was started deliberately or by accident.

Key Facts of the Incident

The CNT has made no further official statements, but the incident has highlighted the critical role of surveillance staff and emergency services in preventing further loss of life or property in high-risk vehicle depots.

Source: l’Express