Pune: Vyoma Graphics Owner Refutes Salary Delay, Unaware of Benzene Theft in Hinjawadi Bus Fire
Hinjawadi, 21st March 2025: In a recent development related to the tragic bus fire in Pune’s Hinjewadi area, the owner of Vyoma Graphics, Nitin Shah, has denied allegations that the driver’s salary was delayed, which was cited as a motive for the arson. Driver Janardan Hambardikar had confessed to setting the bus ablaze due to grievances over unpaid wages and disputes with employees. However, Shah clarified that not a single rupee of Hambardikar’s salary was withheld.
Regarding the theft of benzene, a highly flammable chemical used in the arson, Shah expressed ignorance. He stated that he was unaware of whether one litre or five litres of benzene went missing from the company. Shah emphasized that the company is cooperating fully with the police investigation and is providing all necessary assistance.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning when a Tempo Traveller carrying 14 employees of Vyoma Graphics caught fire, resulting in four deaths and injuring several others. Initially thought to be an accident, the police investigation revealed that Hambardikar deliberately set the fire using benzene and rags. He had been working with the company for over a decade and had been nursing grudges against some employees.
The police have confirmed that Hambardikar’s actions were premeditated and part of a revenge plot. He is currently undergoing treatment for injuries and will be formally arrested once his medical treatment is complete.
