JAIPUR, Oct 15: In a devastating accident barely a week after the SMS Hospital fire tragedy, at least 20 passengers were burnt alive and 16 others sustained critical injuries when a private bus traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire near the War Museum on Tuesday.
Officials said the bus, which had departed Jaisalmer on its regular route, suddenly caught fire around 20 km from the city. The blaze reportedly began in the rear section of the vehicle, possibly due to a short circuit, though the exact cause is under investigation.
Pokran BJP MLA Pratap Puri confirmed that 19 passengers died on the spot and one succumbed to injuries en route to Jodhpur.
Army personnel stationed nearby were the first responders, helping to rescue passengers and transport the injured to the Army hospital for first aid. Those critically injured were later referred to Jodhpur for specialized treatment.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma visited Jaisalmer following the tragedy, expressing deep sorrow and directing officials to ensure proper medical care for the injured and full support to victims’ families.
Municipal Council Assistant Fire Officer Krishnapal Singh Rathore said the bus was fully engulfed in flames by the time the fire brigade arrived. District Collector Pratap Singh reported that retrieval of bodies was delayed due to extreme heat and that a forensic team from Jodhpur was called in to assist.
Opposition leaders, including former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully, and Congress State President Govind Singh Dotasra, expressed condolences to the bereaved families.
The district administration has set up a control room and issued helpline numbers to help relatives of the victims obtain accurate information. (Agencies)
