19 Killed as Passenger Bus Catches Fire on Jaisalmer–Jodhpur Highway

In a tragic incident early Tuesday morning, at least 19 people lost their lives after a passenger bus caught fire on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway in Rajasthan. The devastating blaze erupted following a collision between the bus and a truck, leaving several passengers trapped inside.

According to initial reports, the bus was travelling from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer when it collided head-on with a truck carrying diesel. The impact caused the fuel to spill and ignite, engulfing the bus in flames within minutes. Eyewitnesses said the fire spread rapidly, giving little time for passengers to escape.

Emergency services and local police rushed to the scene as residents attempted to rescue passengers before the fire grew uncontrollable. Firefighters later managed to douse the flames, but by then, most of the vehicle was reduced to ashes.

District officials confirmed that 19 people were killed in the accident, and several others sustained serious burn injuries. The injured have been admitted to nearby hospitals, with some reported to be in critical condition.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and directed officials to ensure all necessary medical assistance for the victims. The state government has also announced compensation for the families of those who died in the tragic mishap.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, including whether negligence or speeding played a role.

This incident highlights the growing concern over road safety and vehicle maintenance on Rajasthan’s busy highways, where accidents continue to claim numerous lives every year.