Fire crews extinguish major bus blaze on Power St

Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) has brought a dramatic bus fire under control in Southbank this evening after a diesel commuter bus erupted into flames on Power St, just up from the CityLink off-ramp and directly beside the Melbourne Square precinct.

FRV confirmed firefighters were called shortly after 7.30pm following multiple Triple Zero (000) calls reporting a bus alight. Crews arrived within six minutes to find the front of the vehicle fully ablaze, sending thick black smoke across Southbank Village, Kavanagh St and towards the Arts Precinct.

The bus was empty of passengers at the time of the fire. The driver was assessed by Ambulance Victoria at the scene, but no injuries have been reported.

Residents in nearby towers, including the densely populated Melbourne Square complex, reported hearing a loud bang before seeing flames engulf the vehicle. The smoke plume was visible across the precinct as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.

FRV said crews were able to quickly bring the incident under control, preventing the fire from spreading. Firefighters are continuing to check surrounding structures and construction site buildings to ensure the blaze has not extended beyond the vehicle.

Traffic on Power St has been heavily disrupted, with emergency vehicles blocking access as crews mop up and conduct safety checks. Motorists are advised to avoid the area, while nearby residents have been encouraged to keep windows closed due to lingering smoke.

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

More updates will follow as information becomes available.