The horrific fire in Jaipur continues to claim lives, with the death toll now at 14. More than 30 people have sustained injuries, and among them, 28 have burns exceeding 80%, with many in critical condition. The situation remains dire, and officials fear the death toll may rise further given the severe condition of the injured.
In this catastrophic accident in Rajasthan's capital, many of the deceased's bodies have been so severely burned that identification has become impossible. To address this, the government has decided to conduct DNA tests for identification, sending DNA samples for examination from the Sawai Man Singh Hospital morgue in Jaipur. Out of the deceased, there are 6 bodies that remain unidentified. Initial investigations revealed that the bus engulfed in flames had its permit expired 16 months ago.
Source: aajtak
Notably, on December 20, around 6 AM on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, a massive explosion occurred following a severe collision between an LPG tanker and a truck. The resulting flames spread far, engulfing around 40 passing vehicles. Several horrific videos emerged, showing charred remains of those burned alive, and images of the severely injured being transported for medical care.
Source: aajtak
The Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety has demanded a report from the Chief Secretary on this incident. A committee has been formed to investigate, led by Rajasthan's Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant. This joint team will conduct a comprehensive probe into all aspects of the accident, including potential construction faults and departmental negligence. The Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety has requested the report by January 20, although preparations are being made to submit it next week.
Source: aajtak
Compensation for the victims has been announced, with the Rajasthan government providing Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for the rehabilitation of the injured, while the central government has also pledged Rs 2 lakh for the relatives of the deceased.
Source: aajtak
The accident claimed the life of a 28-year-old female constable, Anita Meena, returning home from duty, identified through her anklet. Auto driver Shatrughan shared his harrowing experience of the explosion, which severely burned his face, forcing him to abandon his vehicle and flee to save his life.
Source: aajtak
This disaster on Jaipur's Ajmer National Highway has also unveiled lingering issues of corruption and negligence. In the sleeper bus involved, 20 passengers were burned, with 34 aboard, brought from Udaipur to Jaipur. Fourteen individuals, including the driver and conductor, remain unaccounted for.
Source: aajtak
Shockingly, the bus's permit had expired 16 months ago on August 25, 2023, as well as its All India Tourist Permit (AITP) on July 8, 2024. An expired permit indicates the transport department should not have allowed it on the roads, making it the responsibility of RTO to seize such vehicles.
Speaking to the bus owner, Abdul Salim Khan from Udaipur, he claimed the bus had never run before and was booked specifically for December 19. However, an online check revealed daily bookings being taken.
