JAIPUR: A devastating fire broke out outside a petrol pump in Jaipur, Rajasthan, this morning, resulting in the death of at least eight people. The incident occurred at around 5:30 am on Ajmer Road when a truck collided with several vehicles, causing a CNG tanker parked near the pump to ignite.
Officials have reported that more fatalities are feared, with over 40 people injured in the incident. At least 28 of the victims are in critical condition, according to authorities.
Currently, efforts are underway to douse the fire, which has spread to several vehicles parked nearby. The victims are being transported to a hospital, and rescue operations are ongoing.
The explosion was so powerful that it engulfed and completely destroyed several vehicles within a 300-meter radius, according to reports. Many drivers were reportedly burned in the incident, with some in critical condition. Images from the scene show a massive blaze and a thick plume of black smoke rising, visible from several kilometers away.
Locals claimed that the explosion was heard up to 10 kilometers away. There were also multiple subsequent explosions as several fuel tanks ruptured. Preliminary investigations indicate that the truck that collided with the other vehicles was reportedly carrying a chemical.
Station House Officer (SHO) of Bhankrota, Manish Gupta, told the media, "The fire has engulfed several trucks. The number of trucks involved in the incident is not clear. Some people with burn injuries have been rushed to hospitals in ambulances."
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has visited the hospital to meet the victims and offered his condolences for the lives lost in the incident.
The Chief Minister said in a post on X, "I am deeply saddened to hear the sad news of casualties of citizens in the gas tanker fire incident on the Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway. As soon as the information about the incident was received, the Chief Minister went to SMS Hospital and directed the doctors to provide immediate necessary medical facilities and take proper care of the injured. Rescue work by the administration is underway."
He added, "The local administration and emergency services are working with full readiness. I pray to God to grant the departed souls a place in his supreme abode, give the bereaved families strength to bear this immense loss, and provide speedy recovery to the injured."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reportedly spoke with Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma to assess the situation. During the telephonic conversation, Mr. Shah expressed concern over the fire incident.
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