The devastating fire that engulfed a minibus carrying employees of Vyoma Graphics in Hinjewadi, killing four and injuring five others, was not an accident but a planned act of revenge by the vehicle’s driver, police confirmed on Thursday.
The driver, identified as 52-year-old Janardan Humbardekar, allegedly set the vehicle on fire due to workplace grievances, including salary deductions and disputes with employees.
Driver’s Pre-Planned Act
The incident occurred around 7:30 am on Wednesday when the bus was ferrying 14 employees to their first shift at the company. Initially, authorities suspected an electrical short circuit, but this theory was dismissed following the driver’s confession.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Vishal Gaikwad confirmed that the fire was a “premeditated act”. Investigations revealed that Humbardekar, a resident of Warje, smuggled benzene into the bus a day earlier and placed rags inside the vehicle. He allegedly ignited the fire when the bus reached a one-way stretch in Hinjewadi Phase 1.
Before the flames spread, he jumped out of the moving vehicle, ensuring his escape. The driver sustained minor burn injuries and was receiving treatment at a private hospital.
Employees Trapped in the Burning Bus
As the fire erupted, the driverless bus continued for 200 metres before crashing into a tree. Several employees were unable to escape due to a malfunctioning emergency exit at the rear of the minibus.
According to police, Humbardekar had a history of disputes with four to five staff members who regularly traveled in the vehicle. He was reportedly upset over pay cuts, the denial of a Diwali bonus, and frequent workplace arguments.
A Workplace Dispute Turns Deadly
Senior Inspector Kanhaiya Thorat of Hinjewadi Police Station revealed that a missing tiffin pushed the driver over the edge. On Tuesday, he was unable to find his food and had to remain hungry, which further fueled his anger.
Investigations also found that the driver tampered with the emergency exit, ensuring that passengers would struggle to escape the fire.
Humbardekar and two other injured employees were admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic, Hinjewadi. Doctors reported that the driver sustained only minor superficial burns and was likely to be discharged soon.
Legal Action and Arrest
By Thursday evening, the police had filed an FIR and initiated the driver’s arrest. His statement was recorded, confirming his intent to harm the employees.
Authorities are now conducting further investigations into the case, including possible negligence on the part of the bus operator regarding the faulty emergency exit.
Sources By Agencies