The explosion did not result in a fire, and investigations by various authorities are underway to determine the cause of the accident.
At approximately 11:10 AM on December 23rd, a city bus exploded while charging at a hydrogen station in Mokhaeng-dong, Chungju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, resulting in serious injuries to three individuals. The incident has sparked a thorough investigation by local police and fire authorities to pinpoint the exact cause of the explosion.
The bus, which was charging at the time of the explosion, was immediately surrounded by emergency response teams. According to reports, Mr. A, a 30-year-old charging station employee, sustained serious facial injuries due to debris from the explosion. The bus driver, in his fifties, and another individual were also injured in the incident.
Fire officials confirmed that thankfully, there was no fire following the explosion. The Chungju City and Chungbuk Fire Department quickly responded to the scene, stating that the hydrogen fuel cell "stack," a crucial component located at the lower rear of the bus that converts hydrogen into electric energy, might have been the source of the explosion.
The bus involved in the accident was part of a fleet that Chungju City had purchased in August 2022 for 600 million won each, aiming to bolster its public transport system with cleaner energy alternatives. However, following the accident, the city has decided to halt all operations of hydrogen buses pending a thorough safety review.
This accident has raised significant concerns about the safety protocols and technology used in hydrogen-fueled public transport. In response, the Korea Gas Safety Corporation has commenced a detailed investigation, recovering parts from the bus to analyze the cause of the explosion. Additionally, to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents, Chungju City has temporarily replaced the hydrogen buses with chartered buses while the investigation is ongoing.
This incident underscores the challenges and safety considerations that come with adopting new energy technologies in public transportation. Authorities, along with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and the Korea Transportation Safety Authority, are working closely with the bus manufacturer to scrutinize the incident and implement necessary safety enhancements.
