Sat Dec 21 17:21:27 UTC 2024: ## Jaipur LPG Tanker Blast Death Toll Revised Down to 13
**Jaipur, Rajasthan:** The death toll from Friday’s LPG tanker blast on Jaipur’s Ajmer Road has been revised down to 13, authorities announced Saturday evening. Initial reports indicated 14 fatalities, but forensic science laboratory (FSL) analysis revealed that two body fragments initially believed to belong to two different individuals were, in fact, from a single victim.
The blast, which occurred when a Bharat Petroleum tanker collided with a truck, resulted in a massive explosion. Five people died at the scene, and eight others succumbed to their injuries at Sawai Man Singh Hospital (SMS Hospital). One additional death occurred at Jaypuriya Hospital. Twenty-seven injured individuals remain hospitalized, seven of whom are on ventilators. Many victims suffered severe burns (up to 75% in some cases).
Authorities have identified two of the four bodies at SMS Hospital. One victim has been identified as retired IAS officer Karni Singh Rathore, and the other as Sanjay, a resident of Uttar Pradesh. Identifications were confirmed through DNA analysis. The FSL is currently processing samples from two unidentified bodies, with family members scheduled to provide samples for comparison on Sunday.
The High Court of Rajasthan has taken suo moto cognizance of the accident and ordered the central and state governments to provide appropriate compensation to the victims’ families. The accident, involving an LPG tanker that leaked approximately 18 tons of gas following a collision, also caused a large fire, which affected a wide area near the site. A second LPG tanker, fortunately, escaped the blaze.
Prime Minister’s and Chief Minister’s relief funds have announced a total compensation of ₹700,000 to the affected families. The investigation into the cause of the accident continues.
First Piper 