Forensic Report finds AC wiring short circuit started the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur bus Fire on Oct 14, 2025; safety lapses and negligence cited; owner, driver arrested.
Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Bus Fire Incident
A forensic probe has concluded that a short circuit in the air-conditioner wiring caused the deadly Jaisalmer–Jodhpur bus fire on October 14, which killed 26 passengers. The Forensic Report from Jaipur and Jodhpur ruled out any explosive or flammable material and found the blaze began on the roof where the AC unit’s wiring was connected directly to the engine. The report highlights that sparks from the faulty AC connection ignited non–fire-resistant body material, and smoke and carbon monoxide rapidly filled the cabin, causing many passengers to lose consciousness.
Investigators identified multiple safety violations: the AC wiring was improperly routed and attached to the engine, bus body materials lacked fire retardant properties, and earlier regulatory inspections failed to prevent the defects. Authorities have arrested the bus owner, the driver and the workshop owner responsible for constructing the bus body on charges of gross negligence and safety violations. For commuters and operators, the findings stress urgent action on vehicle fire safety standards, compulsory use of fire-resistant interiors, routine electrical inspections, proper wiring practices, and stricter transport department audits to prevent similar tragedies.
The incident has prompted calls for immediate revisions to commercial bus safety norms, mandatory certification for retrofit work, and faster compliance checks for private operators. Families of victims, transport regulators and public safety analysts will now monitor criminal investigations, court proceedings and any policy changes aimed at improving bus electrical systems, emergency exits and on-board firefighting equipment.
