The death toll from a gas tanker crash on the Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway has risen to seven, with more than 35 others injured, health department officials said on Friday, PTI reported.
The fire erupted after a chemical-laden truck collided with several vehicles near a petrol pump early in the morning, sparking chaos and widespread destruction. The blaze engulfed dozens of vehicles, leaving charred remains scattered across the highway. Officials confirmed that at least 40 vehicles were gutted. Firefighters struggled to control the inferno, which was accompanied by loud explosions that created panic in the area.
Jaipur District Magistrate Jitendra Soni said the truck involved in the collision was loaded with chemicals, and the incident occurred in front of a petrol pump. Firefighters and police rushed to the scene as the flames spread to nearby structures, including a pipe factory and a part of the petrol pump.
DCP West Amit Kumar Budania said the fire began after a CNG vehicle parked near the petrol pump exploded following the collision. “About a dozen patients have been admitted to the emergency ward of Sawai Man Singh Hospital. The fire also engulfed several trucks and caused significant damage,” Budania said.
Eyewitnesses described the mayhem as flames and smoke filled the air. Moti Singh, an employee at the petrol pump, said, “We saw trucks burning and immediately tried to control the fire on our site. The fire spread rapidly to other vehicles and structures.”
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanalal Sharma visited SMS Hospital and directed officials to provide medical care to the injured. In a statement on X, Sharma expressed condolences to the victims’ families and promised all necessary assistance.
Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa, who reviewed the scene, called the incident tragic and said 39 injured individuals were receiving treatment.
(With inputs from agencies)