Just days ahead of Diwali, a horrific accident struck Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer district on Tuesday afternoon, when a private bus carrying 57 passengers caught fire, leaving more than 20 people feared dead. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma rushed to the site soon after the incident.
Bus Engulfed in Flames Within Minutes
The incident occurred on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway at around 3:30 pm. According to officials, the bus had barely covered 20 km from Jaisalmer when passengers noticed smoke emerging from the rear. Before the driver could stop, the fire spread rapidly, engulfing the entire bus within minutes. Witnesses said the scene was chaotic, with passengers screaming for help as the vehicle turned into a fireball.
Firecrackers Believed to Have Triggered Blast
Preliminary reports suggest the bus was illegally transporting firecrackers ahead of Diwali. A suspected short circuit is believed to have triggered the explosion, causing the fire to spread uncontrollably. Police officials, however, are investigating to confirm the exact cause of the blaze.
Passengers Jumped to Escape
As the flames spread, terrified passengers broke windows to escape. Locals and passersby rushed to help, pulling people out of the burning vehicle. Firefighters managed to control the blaze after a strenuous effort. Several injured passengers were taken to nearby hospitals, while those with severe burns were referred to Jodhpur for specialised treatment.
CM Expresses Grief, Orders Aid for Victims
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and directed officials to provide all possible assistance to victims and their families. He has been receiving constant updates from the district administration and personally visited the accident site in Jaisalmer.
Former CM Gehlot Also Offers Condolences
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also expressed grief over the devastating fire, calling the incident “deeply saddening.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “The news of several lives lost in the bus fire is extremely distressing. I pray for minimum loss and a swift recovery for the injured.”