What Happened in Rajasthan's Phalodi That Left 18 Dead?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 18 lives lost in a tragic road accident.
- High-speed travel contributed to the collision.
- Immediate response from local residents and police.
- Chief Minister has called for better road safety measures.
- Investigation underway to uncover the cause of the accident.
Jaipur, Nov 2 (NationPress) A devastating accident in Rajasthan has claimed the lives of at least 18 individuals and left around six others injured when a tempo traveller transporting passengers collided with a stationary trailer truck in the Jodhpur district on Sunday, according to police reports.
The unfortunate event transpired near the Matoda area in the Phalodi subdivision, located approximately 160 km from Jodhpur city, during the vehicle's return from Kolayat in Bikaner. The collision occurred as the tempo traveller crashed into a trailer parked on the roadside.
Law enforcement officials stated that the tempo traveller was ferrying pilgrims from the Sursagar region of Jodhpur, who were heading home after attending the annual Kolayat fair, a significant religious event in Bikaner district.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle was traveling at a high velocity and failed to notice the stationary trailer in time due to low visibility conditions in the early morning hours, as reported by a senior officer from the Matoda Police Station.
Sources confirm that the tragic toll stands at 18 deceased, with at least six individuals sustaining injuries.
In the aftermath of the accident, local residents and police forces from nearby areas initiated a rescue operation to free those trapped within the wrecked vehicle.
The injured persons were promptly transported to a hospital, while the deceased have been sent for post-mortem examinations.
Senior officials, including police personnel, arrived at the site shortly after receiving notification of the incident.
Efforts are currently ongoing to identify all victims and notify their families. Reports indicate that the front section of the tempo traveller was utterly crushed, reflecting the severity of the collision.
The trailer struck by the tempo traveller was reportedly loaded with construction materials.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and has instructed officials to ensure immediate medical care for the injured.
"The loss of lives in the road accident in the Matoda region of Phalodi is profoundly tragic and heart-wrenching. My condolences go out to the families affected. I have instructed district administration officials to guarantee proper treatment for all 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 currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.
According to official sources, both vehicles involved in the incident will undergo mechanical evaluations to determine the precise cause of the accident, including potential brake failure or driver fatigue.