In the early hours of Friday, December 20, 2024, a catastrophic accident on the Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway near Bhankrota, Jaipur, resulted in a devastating explosion that claimed 14 lives and left 33 others injured, with several in critical condition.
Sequence of Events
At approximately 5:45 am, a Bharat Petroleum LPG tanker traveling from Ajmer to Jaipur attempted a U-turn near Delhi Public School. During this maneuver, a truck laden with blankets, bedsheets, and garments collided with the tanker. The impact ruptured the tanker’s nozzles, causing a massive leak of liquefied petroleum gas.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. One local resident recounted, “The gas gushed out like water from an overflowing dam.” Within minutes, the leaked gas ignited, triggering a series of explosions that engulfed an area spanning approximately 800 meters. Over 40 vehicles, including sleeper buses, trucks, and private cars, were caught in the inferno.
Casualties and Injuries
The explosion’s immediate aftermath was grim. Fourteen individuals lost their lives, with several bodies burned beyond recognition. Among the deceased was 34-year-old Shahabuddin from Rae Bareli, who was driving the truck that collided with the tanker. His brother, Saifuddin, confirmed his identity. The driver of the LPG tanker remains missing and is presumed to have perished in the blaze.
The injured were swiftly transported to Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital and Jaipuria Hospital in Jaipur. Medical officials reported that seven patients are in critical condition and on ventilator support. The majority of the injured sustained severe burns, with some suffering burns covering 50–60% of their bodies. The hospitals have been working tirelessly to provide necessary medical care, with additional beds prepared to accommodate the influx of patients.
Emergency Response
First responders, including fire brigades and police units, arrived promptly at the scene. However, they faced significant challenges in controlling the blaze due to the highly flammable LPG and the intensity of the fire. A fire officer described the situation: “The biggest challenge in the area was dealing with both the gas and the fire. We had to be fully equipped, wearing masks and other protective gear to enter the site. It took us almost eight hours to bring the fire under control.”
The highway was immediately closed to facilitate rescue operations and prevent further accidents. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area while cleanup and investigations are underway.
Eyewitness Accounts
Survivors and witnesses recounted harrowing experiences. A school van driver who was near the site said, “I saw a man burning, and the scene was terrifying.” Another witness mentioned that the explosion’s sound was so loud it could be heard for miles, causing panic among residents in nearby areas.
CCTV footage from the vicinity captured the moment of the explosion, showing a massive fireball engulfing the highway and vehicles. The footage has been crucial for investigators piecing together the sequence of events leading to the disaster.
Government Response and Compensation
In the wake of the tragedy, the Rajasthan state government announced compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹1 lakh for those injured. Chief Minister Sharma expressed deep condolences and has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident to determine accountability and prevent future occurrences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences and announced an additional ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the families of the deceased. He stated, “The loss of lives in the Jaipur LPG tanker explosion is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the bereaved families during this difficult time.”
Investigation and Safety Concerns
Preliminary investigations suggest that the tanker’s attempt to make a U-turn on the busy highway was a critical error, leading to the collision. Authorities are examining whether proper safety protocols were followed and if there were any lapses in traffic management. The incident has raised concerns about the transportation of hazardous materials through densely populated areas and the enforcement of road safety regulations.
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Experts emphasize the need for stringent safety measures when transporting flammable substances like LPG. This includes proper training for drivers, regular maintenance of vehicles, and adherence to designated routes that minimize risks to public safety. The investigation will also look into whether the tanker had the necessary permits and if the vehicle was in compliance with safety standards.
Community Impact
The tragedy has left the local community in shock and mourning. Vigils have been held for the victims, and support is being organized for the affected families. Local organizations and volunteers have stepped forward to assist with relief efforts, providing food, shelter, and counseling to those impacted by the disaster.
The incident has also sparked discussions about infrastructure and urban planning, particularly concerning the proximity of schools, residential areas, and fuel stations to major highways. Residents are calling for improved safety measures and better emergency preparedness to prevent such tragedies in the future