A catastrophic collision on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway early Friday morning resulted in a massive fire, claiming at least eight lives and injuring over 35 individuals.
The disaster unfolded when a chemical-laden truck collided with an LPG tanker near a petrol pump in Jaipur’s Bhankrota area. The impact triggered a series of explosions, engulfing more than 40 vehicles in flames and sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes. A school van driver, en route to pick up students, described seeing a man completely engulfed in flames amidst the chaos. Another survivor, who managed to escape by breaking a bus window, recalled continuous explosions and a stretch of highway consumed by fire.
Emergency services, including over 25 ambulances and numerous fire tenders, responded swiftly. However, the intensity of the blaze initially hindered rescue operations. The injured were transported to Sawai Man Singh Hospital in Jaipur, with several reported to be in critical condition.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma visited the hospital to oversee the treatment of the injured and later inspected the accident site. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and directed officials to ensure all necessary medical facilities are provided to the victims.
The accident led to significant traffic disruptions on the highway, with a 300-meter stretch affected and vehicles queued for kilometers. Authorities have since cleared the wreckage, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the collision.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, announcing an ex-gratia of Rs.2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs.50,000 for the injured.
This tragic event has cast a pall over the region, with communities mourning the loss of lives and praying for the swift recovery of the injured.
