What Caused the Bus Tragedy Claiming 18 Lives in Rajasthan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tragic loss of life: 18 fatalities reported.
- Investigation ongoing: Police are examining the cause.
- Safety concerns: Urgent need for improved road safety measures.
- Community response: Local residents assisted in rescue efforts.
- Government action: Officials directed to ensure medical care for the injured.
Jaipur, Nov 2 (NationPress) Tragically, 18 individuals lost their lives and approximately six others were hurt when a bus filled with passengers collided with a parked trailer truck in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan on Sunday, as reported by the police.
The heart-wrenching event took place near the Matoda region in Phalodi, situated about 160 km from Jodhpur city, as the bus was returning from Kolayat in Bikaner when it crashed into a trailer parked along the roadside.
According to law enforcement, the bus was transporting pilgrims from the Sursagar area of Jodhpur who were returning home after attending the Kolayat fair, an annual religious celebration in Bikaner.
A senior officer from Matoda Police Station noted, “Initial investigations indicate that the bus was speeding and failed to see the stationary trailer due to poor visibility in the early morning.”
Sources confirm the deaths of 18 people thus far, with at least six others suffering from injuries.
In the aftermath of the crash, local residents alongside police from nearby stations began a rescue operation to free passengers trapped within the wreckage.
The injured were swiftly taken to a medical facility, while the deceased have been sent for a post-mortem examination.
Senior officials, including police representatives, arrived at the scene shortly after the accident was reported.
Efforts are ongoing to identify all victims and notify their families. Reports reveal that the front section of the bus was completely obliterated in the crash, underscoring the severity of the impact.
The trailer that the bus struck was said to be loaded with construction materials.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed sorrow over the loss of life and directed officials to provide immediate medical care to the injured.
“The loss of life in the road accident in the Matoda area of Phalodi is deeply tragic and heartbreaking. My thoughts are with the grieving families. Instructions have been issued to district administration officials to ensure appropriate care for all the injured. I pray for peace for the departed souls and a swift recovery for the injured,” Chief Minister Sharma stated on X.
Authorities have filed a case and are looking into the accident's cause.
Officials have indicated that both vehicles involved will undergo mechanical inspections to determine the specific reasons for the accident, including potential brake failure or driver fatigue.