More than 30 people have been rescued by a truck driver who bravely saved a bus with brake problems on its way down a mountain pass in Lam Dong Province.

The truck driven by Phan Van Bac and the bus suffering brake problems are seen after the incident on August 6, 2016. Tuoi Tre

At 2:30 pm on Wednesday, a 42-seater passenger bus operated by travel firm Tan Ha was traveling from Bao Loc City downward the Bao Loc Pass when its brakes malfunctioned.

Noticing that the driver seemed to lose control of the passenger bus, Phan Van Bac, another driver traveling ahead, drove slowly and let the vehicle cling onto his truck’s back to slow it down.

The two vehicles safely passed the pass and eventually stopped at a flat road section. The front part of the bus was severely damaged and the truck’s back was distorted after the incident.

Driver Phan Van Bac. Photo: Phan Van Bac

All passengers and the bus driver were safe, police said.

“As I saw passengers screaming and the bus signaling, I knew something had gone wrong,” Bac said.

“I then decided to rush forward and find ways to slow down the bus.

“I was breathless when hearing the noise of the impact, but I managed to handle the wheel.”

The truck driver said that he was really frightened until the bus driver shook his hand in gratitude.

Bac also added that the bus started to suffer brake failure on the ending section of the pass, which is a very steep descent.

For his bravery, Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper has decided to award VND7 million (US$313) to Bac.

Doan Van Viet, chairman of the Lam Dong People’s Committee, said that he was touched by Bac’s act.

Provincial police also suggested the local traffic safety board should reward the truck driver.

“It feels so good seeing friends and colleagues praising me. But to be honest, I am reluctant to go outside now as I am really embarrassed,” Bac said.

“I just hope that those who get into trouble when driving will be helped.”

(Source: Tuoitrenews)