Fri Dec 20 20:12:01 UTC 2024: ## 11 Dead, Dozens Injured in Devastating Jaipur Gas Tanker Explosion

**Jaipur, Rajasthan –** A horrific gas tanker explosion on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway has claimed the lives of 11 people and left dozens more injured, officials confirmed today. The incident, which occurred around 5:30 am, involved a CNG tanker that caught fire after colliding with a truck and several other vehicles, resulting in a massive blaze that engulfed approximately 37 vehicles.

The explosion caused a scene of utter devastation, with eyewitnesses describing continuous blasts and widespread fire. “There was fire everywhere around the bus,” one eyewitness recounted to ANI, detailing how they escaped through a broken window. Another witness described the terrifying experience of numerous explosions.

The impact was immediate and severe. Five people died at the scene and were brought to SMS Medical College and Hospital in Jaipur. A further five succumbed to their injuries during treatment at the same hospital, with one additional death reported at Jaipuria Hospital, according to Dr. Deepak Maheshwari, Principal of SMS Medical College. A total of 27 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at SMS Hospital, many in critical condition, with one more admitted to a private hospital.

Authorities responded swiftly, establishing a “green corridor” to expedite the transport of injured individuals to SMS Hospital. However, the initial 300-meter stretch of highway disruption quickly escalated into major traffic congestion, requiring diversions as the arterial road became completely choked by afternoon.

The incident also caused environmental concerns, with locals reporting eye irritation, breathing difficulties, and the discovery of dead birds in the area, possibly due to the smoke inhalation.

In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. The Rajasthan government has also pledged financial assistance, providing ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased and ₹1 lakh for the injured. The cause of the initial collision and subsequent explosion is currently under investigation.

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