A request for an independent investigation into the recent bus explosion in northeast Calgary has been made by the local councillor a week after the tragic incident occurred. The collision on October 15 involving two city transit buses and multiple vehicles in Saddle Ridge resulted in an explosion on a natural gas-powered bus, causing three fatalities and 16 injuries.
Both the Calgary Fire Department and Calgary Police Service have confirmed that an investigation into the fire’s cause is in its early stages, with Transport Canada also providing assistance in the process. Coun. Raj Dhaliwal described the crash as a “freak accident” and expressed his desire for an external independent investigation separate from the ongoing fire and police inquiries.
Expressing the need for a comprehensive review similar to those conducted after previous incidents, Dhaliwal emphasized the importance of considering transit-specific factors and the design of the intersection where the collision took place. He emphasized the importance of addressing any potential biases in the investigative process to ensure the final recommendations are impartial and credible.
Concerns have been raised about the safety of Calgary Transit’s compressed natural gas (CNG) buses following the accident, as they constitute around 30% of the city’s bus fleet. However, experts have reassured that incidents involving CNG buses are rare and that they adhere to stringent testing and maintenance protocols to ensure safety standards are met.
Differentiating between CNG and diesel engines, experts highlighted the safety features of CNG engines, including pressure-release valves and the ability to withstand fire for a limited period. While the exact cause of the Calgary crash is still under investigation, experts suggested that the collision may have compromised the CNG fuel line, leading to the fire.
With nearly 1,000 CNG buses in operation across Canada, these vehicles are considered established technology and are widely used due to their cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits compared to diesel. The rigorous testing procedures and safety measures in place for CNG buses are designed to prevent catastrophic incidents and ensure passenger safety.
Calgary Transit is collaborating with investigators to evaluate its CNG operations and determine if additional safety measures are necessary. The incident has sparked discussions on enhancing safety standards and implementing potential improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue and regulatory enhancements in the public transportation sector.
