Title: Dramatic Morning for Students as School Bus Catches Fire on N273
A dramatic start to the day unfolded on the N273 in Grathem when a school bus burst into flames, leaving students and the driver unharmed but causing significant traffic delays during the morning rush hour.
The incident occurred near the viaduct over the A2, with the bus initially experiencing problems that alerted the driver and passengers to the impending danger. The bus was reported to be stuttering and losing power, prompting the driver to pull over after seeing smoke and being notified by other motorists using their hazard lights.
Before long, the bus was engulfed in flames, with firefighters swiftly arriving at the scene. The blaze was severe enough to be classified as a medium-sized fire, requiring multiple fire engines and water vehicles to extinguish it. The timing of the incident, during the morning peak, resulted in a substantial traffic build-up.
Fortunately, all students, hailing from northern regions of the province, were able to disembark safely. They were then picked up by another bus and transported to their school in Maaseik.
Authorities report no injuries, but the bus was completely destroyed in the intense fire. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation.
