[WATCH] Updated | Bus catches fire in St. Paul's Bay

Malta Public Transport and Transport Malta have both launched investigations into the incident • Bus driver being treated for shock

4 May 2018, 2:38pm

1 min read

(Photo: James Bianchi)

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A public bus caught fire as it was driving through Mosta Road in St Paul’s Bay at around 2:00pm on Friday.

A live video captured firefighters trying to contain the flames as thick smokes emerged from the bus.

The fire was eventually put out by members of the Civil Protection department.

In a statement, Malta Public Transport said that no one was injured in the incident.

"A vehicle operated by Malta Public Transport has been involved in an incident in St. Paul’s Bay. An emergency procedure was activated and our response team are on site offering all possible assistance to the relevant authorities.

(Photo: James Bianchi)

"Our priority at the moment is to ensure the well-being and safety of all those involved. As a precaution measure, the driver is being treated for shock."

Route buses travelling through Mosta Road are being diverted.

Transport Malta to launch investigation

In a statement issued later in the day, Malta's transport regulator, Transport Malta, said it would be launching an investigation into the fire, while thanking the Civil Protection Department for its intervention.

"The investigation will try to determine the cause of the accident and will help Transport Malta come up with recommendations to help avoid future similar accidents.

"The Authority thanks the driver who, according to preliminary reports, acted swiftly and followed emergency procedures, thus avoiding further repercussions from the accident. Transport Malta is glad that all passengers managed to alight the bus, before the fire spread, to avoid injuries."