A terrible accident happened early Wednesday morning in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. A bus carrying passengers caught fire, killing at least 20 people. The bus was on its way from Barmer to Jodhpur when the fire quickly broke out, trapping a number of people inside. Reports from witnesses say the car was on fire within minutes, leaving not much time for recovery efforts.
Police and fire departments from the area rushed to the scene and put out the fire after several hours. The authorities have stated that most of the victims were burned so badly that they can’t be identified yet. According to early studies, the fire may have started because of a short circuit or too much heat in the engine compartment.
Reports from eyewitnesses and efforts to save lives
Witnesses said it was a terrifying scene, with people screaming for help as thick smoke rose from the bus. Some people were able to break windows and get out, but many were stuck inside because the flames were so strong. People in nearby villages and on the roads tried to save people before the fire trucks got there, but it was very hard because the fire spread so quickly.
Rescue teams took the hurt people to the Jaisalmer District Hospital, where they got emergency medical care. Officials say that a number of the victims are in serious condition and are being taken to Jodhpur for more advanced care.
Prime Minister Modi announces ex gratia pay
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was very sorry about what happened and sent his respects to the families of the victims. He said that the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) would give each family member of those who died an extra ₹2 lakh. This was in a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). Also, ₹50,000 will be given to people who were hurt in the accident.
Chief Minister of Rajasthan Bhajanlal Sharma also sent his condolences and promised that the state government would do everything it could to help the families of the dead. He has asked for an in-depth look into what started the fire.
