A devastating accident early Friday morning on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway left seven confirmed dead and dozens injured after a chemical truck collided with an LPG tanker, triggering a massive fire that ravaged several vehicles.
The tragic incident took place near Bhankrota, causing widespread panic and destruction as flames spread across the scene.
Dr Sushil Kumar Bhati, superintendent of SMS Hospital, confirmed that seven people died and 10 to 12 others were injured. More than 60% of the injured suffered serious burns. According to Dr Bhati, 28 people are currently receiving medical treatment, including six in critical condition on ventilators.
Rajasthan Chief Minister BhajanLal Sharma visited the scene later in the day and expressed condolences to the victims.
He also announced the establishment of a helpline to assist families affected by the disaster and assured that arrangements were being made to provide medical care to the injured.
“The state government is fully committed to supporting those who have been affected and ensuring that all necessary resources are available for the treatment of the injured,” he said.
Amit Kumar, the police commissioner, confirmed the scale of the tragedy. He said, “The accident took place on Ajmer main road near Bhankrota early this morning.
Nearly two dozen vehicles were gutted by the fire, and many trucks and carts were reduced to ashes. The chain collision, involving several vehicles near a gas pump, caused a massive fire.”
Emergency services, including firefighters and medical teams, quickly arrived on the scene to extinguish the flames and rescue survivors. However, the severity of the fire made the task difficult and authorities were unable to approach the site for at least 500 meters due to the intense heat.
The investigation into the causes of the collision and fire is still ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the damage and loss of life.
Authorities urged residents to avoid the area as efforts to clear rubble and contain the fire continue.
Investigations are underway to identify the exact circumstances that led to this tragic accident, and the Rajasthan government has promised to fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies to clarify the incident.
