Pune Minibus Fire That Killed Four Was Deliberately Set by Driver Over Workplace Grievances

Investigators revealed the driver used an inflammable chemical to start the fire, citing salary cuts and disputes as motives.

The fire occurred on Wednesday morning in Hinjewadi, Pune, killing four employees and injuring six others, two critically.
Police confirmed the fire was a premeditated act by the driver, Janardan Hambardekar, who was upset over a salary cut and denied Diwali bonus.
Hambardekar used benzene, a highly flammable chemical, to ignite the fire and jumped from the moving bus, sustaining minor burns.
Systemic failures, including locked windows and a malfunctioning emergency exit, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire and the fatalities.
Vyoma Graphics, the employer, has yet to announce compensation for the victims' families, many of whom relied on the deceased as sole breadwinners.