Sat Dec 21 09:57:26 UTC 2024: ## Jaipur Gas Tanker Explosion Kills 14, Death Toll May Rise
**Jaipur, Rajasthan:** A horrific gas tanker explosion on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway near Bhankrota on Friday morning has claimed the lives of 14 people, with the death toll expected to rise as several critically injured remain hospitalized. The incident occurred around dawn, while most people were asleep.
The collision between an LPG tanker and a truck resulted in a massive fire that engulfed over 35 vehicles, leaving them completely destroyed. Thirteen fatalities were reported at SMS Hospital in Jaipur, with one death at Jaypuriya Hospital. At least 44 individuals suffered severe burns and are receiving treatment at various hospitals across the city. The condition of many is described as critical, with some suffering up to 90% burns and respiratory damage from smoke inhalation.
Chief Minister Bhagwanlal Sharma has ordered a special campaign to identify and rectify “black spots” on state roads prone to accidents, aiming to reduce road fatalities. He instructed the Public Works Department to ensure timely completion of repairs with high-quality work.
Jaipur District Collector Jitendra Kumar Soni has formed a six-member committee comprising officials from different departments to investigate the incident, acting on instructions from the state government. The committee will probe the circumstances leading to the accident and potential failures in safety protocols.
Graphic images and videos circulating on social media depict the devastating scale of the tragedy. A helpline number has been issued to assist in identifying victims and providing support to affected families. One survivor, Govind Singh, who was traveling to Jaipur for wedding preparations, managed to contact a friend despite his injuries. His friend however did not survive. Hospital authorities are utilizing IT department resources to help identify the victims.
First Piper 