Jaipur Gas Tanker Tragedy: 11 Dead, Many Critical After LPG Outlet Fire

Jaipur Gas Tanker Tragedy: In a tragic incident on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, an LPG tanker-truck collision resulted in a devastating fire that claimed 11 lives and left numerous injured.

The accident, which occurred early in the morning at 5.30 am, led to a massive blaze that engulfed 37 vehicles and nearby buildings. The impact was so severe that the fire spread rapidly, trapping vehicles in its wake and causing chaos on the highway.

Photo Credit: PTI

The Rajasthan government has stepped forward to offer financial assistance to those affected by this horrifying event. Families of the deceased will receive ₹5 lakh, while those injured in the accident are entitled to ₹1 lakh. This support aims to provide some relief to the victims and their families during this difficult time.

Dr. Deepak Maheshwari, Principal of SMS Medical College, revealed that 11 individuals lost their lives in this catastrophe. Five were pronounced dead upon arrival at SMS hospital, another five succumbed to their injuries while undergoing treatment, and one fatality was reported from Jaipuria hospital. The scale of the tragedy was further highlighted by the state's Health Minister, Gajendra Singh Khimsar, who reported that nearly half of the injured were in a "very critical" condition, with seven individuals requiring ventilator support.

Jaipur Gas Tanker Tragedy - Details of the Accident

The collision's aftermath was described by the Jaipur Police Commissioner, Biju George Joseph. He explained that the accident was triggered by damage to the LPG tanker's outlet nozzle. This damage caused a gas leak, which, upon ignition, led to the rapid spread of fire. Vehicles following the tanker and those approaching from the opposite direction were caught in the blaze, leading to numerous collisions and a significant loss of life.

Eyewitnesses shared harrowing tales of their experience. One recounted a dramatic escape from a burning bus; they described breaking a window to flee the inferno that had surrounded them. Continuous explosions and the proximity to a petrol pump added to the peril, creating a nightmarish scenario for all those caught in the vicinity.

Another eyewitness, a school van driver, noted the chaos and panic that ensued. From a distance, the flames were visible, and as he approached, the sight of people running for their lives and engulfed in flames was deeply distressing. Despite the presence of fire brigades and ambulances, the intensity of the fire made it challenging for rescue services to reach those in need promptly.

Other survivors narrated their narrow escapes, highlighting the criticality of quick action in such emergencies. Those who managed to exit their vehicles survived, while others weren't as fortunate. The entire lane was ablaze, painting a grim picture of the incident's severity.

Community Response and Government Aid

The community's response to this tragedy highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for swift action in the face of such disasters. The Rajasthan government's financial assistance to the victims and their families underscores the critical role of support during such tragic times.

In conclusion, the devastating accident on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway serves as a sombre reminder of the dangers on the road. The loss of lives and the number of injured in this tragic incident call for increased vigilance and safety measures to prevent such disasters in the future. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this challenging time, and we commend the bravery of those who risked their lives to save others.