Sat Dec 21 07:28:39 UTC 2024: **Jaipur Tanker Blast Kills 14, Injures Dozens**
JAIPUR, INDIA – A devastating tanker blast on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway has claimed the lives of at least 14 people and left 32 others injured, many critically. The incident, which occurred in the Bhankrota area of Jaipur on Saturday morning, caused widespread damage, incinerating over 41 vehicles and damaging nearby homes. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as people fled the inferno. The intensity of the blast was such that the bodies of some victims were so badly burned that identification is proving extremely difficult, with DNA testing required in several cases. At least 15 of the injured suffered over 50% burns.
The tragedy has left many families devastated. One heartbreaking story involves Anita Meena, an RAC constable who perished while on duty. Her husband frantically searched hospitals before finally identifying her body at the morgue by her anklet. She is survived by two young children.
The central government has announced compensation of ₹200,000 for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. The Rajasthan government has pledged ₹500,000 for each victim’s family and ₹100,000 for each injured person.
CCTV footage of the incident, showing the massive explosion and ensuing fire, has been widely circulated, highlighting the horrific scale of the disaster. The investigation into the cause of the blast is ongoing. The article also mentions unrelated news about former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud’s opposition to the appointment of a specific Allahabad High Court judge, which is not directly related to the Jaipur tanker blast.
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