A bus carrying a dozen passengers caught fire while travelling on a busy road in India.

Dramatic footage shows the sleeper coach engulfed in flames on the Western Express Highway in the Malad area of Mumbai on Tuesday.

Motorists were seen continuing to drive past the burning vehicle, which was heading towards Borivali, as thick smoke rose into the sky.

The fire was brought under control after around 30 minutes. Officials said 13 passengers were on board at the time.

When the fire broke out, the driver stopped the bus and instructed all commuters to evacuate.

Witnesses said several distressed travellers climbed out through the windows to escape the vehicle.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire. No serious injuries were reported.