Tragedy on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway: Gas Tanker Crash Claims 11 Lives, Leaves Trail of Devastation
A horrifying collision on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway turned a routine Friday morning into a nightmare as a gas tanker crash led to a massive inferno, claiming 11 lives and leaving over 40 people injured. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across Rajasthan, with officials and emergency services working tirelessly to address the aftermath.
CCTV Footage Reveals Devastation
Chilling CCTV footage from the accident scene captures the moments following the collision. A fire, triggered by the gas tanker crash, rapidly swept through nearby properties, engulfing a residence and leaving a trail of destruction. The video also shows thick black smoke billowing into the sky, followed by an explosion that intensified the blaze. The fire’s impact stretched across a 300-meter section of the highway, damaging buildings, vehicles, and creating a gridlock as emergency responders struggled to access the site.
Casualties and Damage
The inferno caused widespread destruction, with at least 30 vehicles destroyed in the fire. Rescue teams and ambulances rushed to the scene, transporting over 40 injured individuals to the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur. Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar reported that nearly half of the injured are in critical condition, with hospital staff working around the clock to save lives.
The incident has also left authorities scrambling to identify passengers from a bus that was traveling behind the gas tanker at the time of the crash. Investigations are underway to determine the extent of the damage to nearby establishments and assess the financial loss caused by the tragedy.
Government Response
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Health Minister Khimsar visited SMS Hospital to meet the injured and assess the situation. The government has set up a ‘green corridor’ to facilitate the swift transfer of patients from the accident site to the hospital. Speaking to reporters, Khimsar expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and assured them of all possible support. He also emphasized the need for stringent safety measures on highways to prevent such disasters in the future.
Community in Mourning
The local community is grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy. Many families have lost loved ones, while others are anxiously waiting for updates on their injured relatives. The scene of the accident—charred vehicles, burnt properties, and a section of highway turned to rubble—serves as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of such disasters.
The Road Ahead
As investigators work to determine the cause of the collision, the tragedy underscores the importance of road safety and the need for better regulations when transporting hazardous materials. The government’s swift response in setting up the green corridor and providing medical care is commendable, but the incident raises broader questions about infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
This catastrophic event has left an indelible mark on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, reminding us of the critical need for vigilance, safety, and compassion in times of crisis. For now, the focus remains on aiding survivors and ensuring such a disaster never occurs again.