What Led to the Jaisalmer Bus Fire? Driver and Owner Arrested
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Synopsis
In a tragic incident in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, a bus fire claimed 22 lives, leading to the arrest of the driver and owner. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to delve into the incident, examining potential causes and negligence. The aftermath has sparked protests from victims' families demanding justice and increased compensation.
Key Takeaways
- 22 fatalities confirmed in the Jaisalmer bus fire.
- Driver and owner arrested in connection with the incident.
- A Special Investigation Team has been established to investigate.
- The investigation will assess mechanical failures and negligence.
- Victims' families are demanding higher compensation.
Jaipur, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Rajasthan Police have taken action by arresting the bus driver Shaukat and the owner Turab Ali following the devastating bus incident in Jaisalmer, which resulted in the tragic loss of 22 lives and numerous injuries, as reported by officials.
Both suspects were apprehended for interrogation on Wednesday night, with their arrests confirmed post questioning.
The Superintendent of Police (SP) of Jaisalmer, Abhishek Shivhare, revealed that two formal complaints were lodged: one from Chandan Singh, sibling of the deceased Rajendra Singh Chauhan, and another from Jagdish, brother of the late Gopilal Darji.
In response to these complaints, the police initiated legal proceedings and registered cases.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established to meticulously investigate all facets of this tragic event.
This team, spearheaded by Kailashdan Jugtawat, the Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Jaisalmer, comprises Deputy Roop Singh Inda, Nachana Station House Officer (SHO) Butaram, Sadar SHO Surjaram, and Assistant Sub-Inspector Rajendra Kumar.
The SIT's mission includes probing the cause of the accident, examining any technical failures, the driver's conduct, and potential criminal negligence involved.
Authorities are also scrutinizing the bus's speed, its condition, and adherence to safety regulations at the moment of the fire.
SP Shivhare indicated that the completion of the final report will require time, as multiple factors are under examination.
Given that the bus was produced in Chittorgarh, efforts are underway to gather relevant details from there.
The investigation will also factor in victim testimonies, forensic analyses, and technical data.
Initial reports indicate that 35 passengers were on board the bus at the time, with 22 fatalities and 13 injuries currently being treated in Jodhpur.
DNA samples from 18 of the 19 recovered bodies have been collected, with one awaiting confirmation.
Future legal proceedings will hinge on the SIT's findings, which will clarify whether the tragedy was a result of human error or mechanical issues.
Two FIRs have been officially registered thus far.
In a show of support, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has declared compensation packages for the victims' families: ₹25 lakh for families facing three or more deaths, ₹10 lakh per individual for one or two deaths, ₹2 lakh for those seriously injured, and ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries.
In the meantime, families of the victims have staged a protest at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital in Jodhpur, demanding enhanced compensation and refusing to claim the bodies of their loved ones.
The death toll reached 22 following the passing of Bhaga Bano, aged 54, on Thursday morning.
Currently, five patients remain on ventilators, while postmortem and DNA procedures are in progress.
This fire incident transpired on October 14, when a private AC sleeper bus traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire around 3:30 PM, resulting in 19 immediate fatalities.
Point of View
We at NationPress believe that the investigation into the Jaisalmer bus fire must be thorough and transparent. The loss of lives is a tragedy that underscores the importance of road safety and accountability in the transportation sector. We advocate for justice for the victims and their families while emphasizing the need for systemic changes to prevent future accidents.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Jaisalmer bus fire?
The investigation is ongoing, focusing on potential mechanical failures and human negligence.
How many people were affected by the incident?
A total of 35 passengers were on the bus; 22 died and 13 were injured.
What compensation has been announced for victims' families?
Compensation includes ₹25 lakh for families with three or more deaths, ₹10 lakh per individual for one or two deaths, and ₹2 lakh for serious injuries.
What is the role of the Special Investigation Team?
The SIT will investigate the accident's cause, examine technical faults, and assess criminal negligence.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
The SIT will compile a report based on forensic evidence, witness statements, and bus condition.
