8 dead, many injured in massive Jaipur fire after truck collision

At least eight people were killed and more than 40 injured in a massive fire that broke out following a truck collision outside a petrol pump in Jaipur, Rajasthan, this morning. The incident occurred around 5:30 am on Ajmer Road when a CNG tanker, parked near the petrol pump, caught fire after a truck collided with other vehicles.

Via Reutersroar-assets-auto.rbl.ms

Officials have stated that at least 28 of the injured are in critical condition, and more fatalities are feared as the situation unfolds. The explosion triggered by the fire was so intense that it engulfed several vehicles within a 300-meter radius, leaving them completely burned. Many drivers were severely injured, with some in critical condition.

Witnesses reported that the explosion was heard up to 10 kilometers away, with repeated blasts as many of the fuel tanks on the vehicles burst. A thick cloud of black smoke was visible from several kilometers as the fire continued to rage.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the truck involved in the collision was carrying a chemical load, which may have contributed to the scale of the explosion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences to the families of those affected, announcing financial compensation for the victims. ₹2 lakh will be provided to the families of the deceased, while those injured will receive ₹50,000 in assistance.

The authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident, as rescue operations and efforts to control the fire are ongoing.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma too announced ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased, while those injured will receive ₹1 lakh in compensation.