A request for an independent investigation has been made by a local councilor in northeast Calgary following a fatal bus explosion that occurred a week ago. The incident, which involved two city transit buses and other vehicles in Saddle Ridge on October 15, resulted in an explosion on a natural gas-powered bus, leading to three fatalities and 16 injuries. Both the Calgary Fire Department and Calgary Police Service have confirmed that an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, with Transport Canada also providing assistance.
Coun. Raj Dhaliwal described the crash as an unexpected event and expressed his desire for an external independent investigation separate from the ongoing fire and police inquiries. He emphasized the need for an unbiased examination to ensure transparent final recommendations.
Furthermore, Dhaliwal highlighted the importance of conducting a thorough review similar to previous investigations, such as those following incidents involving the Bearspaw feeder main ruptures. This comprehensive review would consider factors specific to transit operations and the design of the intersection where the collision occurred.
Concerns have been raised regarding the safety of Calgary Transit’s compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, which account for approximately 30% of the city’s bus fleet. However, experts have noted that while CNG buses differ from diesel-powered ones, they are subject to stringent testing and maintenance protocols to guarantee their safety and are not inherently riskier.
Gordon McTaggart-Cowen, a professor at Simon Fraser University, explained that CNG engines are engineered to withstand fire and undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety. He emphasized that CNG’s ignition process differs from diesel and highlighted the safety advantages of natural gas when handled correctly.
Josipa Petrunic, CEO of the Canadian Urban Transit Research and Innovation Consortium, stated that CNG buses are a well-established technology in Canada, known for their safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits compared to diesel buses. She highlighted the robust engineering of CNG tanks to prevent catastrophic events and the extensive testing procedures these buses undergo to ensure their reliability.
Calgary Transit has committed to collaborating with investigators to assess its CNG operations and enhance safety measures as needed. Despite existing regulations, Petrunic stressed the importance of continuous dialogue to improve safety standards and address any potential gaps that may arise from incidents like the recent bus explosion in Saddle Ridge.