A bendy bus was extensively damaged by fire this evening in Mellieha - the second such case in 24 hours.
The fire developed as the bus was being driven downhill on the main road soon after entering the village. Twelve passengers who were on board were quickly evacuated.
Picture - Jesmond Fenech - mynews@timesofmalta.comNo one was injured but the rear of the bus, where the engine is located, was destroyed.
Another bendy bus was completely gutted in a fierce fire in Marsa in the early hours of this morning (Sunday).
SEVEN OTHER INCIDENTS
The two incidents were the most serious since the Arriva service was introduced in July last year, but there were seven other cases where the engine compartments of the buses overheated and caught fire. In those cases the fires were contained.
In comments to The Times of Malta after yesterday morning's blaze, Transport Minister Joe Mizzi said he would wait until the police investigations were concluded before deciding what action to take.
“Arriva is a private operator, so there is only so much we can do at this point.
“The ministry is responsible for ensuring that these vehicles are covered by VRT and road safety tests , which they should have been,” Mr Mizzi said, insisting that serious measures would be taken if any evidence of negligence was found.
See also http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20130825/local/fire-destroys-arriva-bus.483393