Jaipur LPG Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Reaches 20 as Another Burn Victim Passes Away
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Jaipur, Dec 28 (NationPress) Yet another victim of the Jaipur LPG tanker explosion and fire has tragically succumbed to his burn injuries on Saturday, raising the death toll to 20 in the catastrophic incident that occurred nearly eight days ago.
Currently, eight more victims are in critical condition, fighting severe burn injuries.
As per reports from officials, Salim, an Ajmer resident, passed away during treatment at 6:15 a.m. on Saturday.
After a postmortem conducted by the medical board, his body will be returned to his family.
The unfortunate incident took place on December 20 along the Jaipur-Ajmer highway, resulting in 27 individuals suffering burns covering up to 80 per cent of their bodies.
Many victims endured burns ranging from 50 per cent to 55 per cent, including Salim, who was accompanied by his brother throughout his hospital stay.
His brother, who had remained hopeful for Salim's recovery after eight days of treatment, received the devastating news of his death on Saturday morning.
Dr. Rakesh Jain, a burn specialist at the Sawai Man Singh Hospital (SMSH), stated that the medical team has been diligently working to treat the injured and improve recovery prospects.
He highlighted that every possible effort is being made to provide the best care for the patients.
"Our team has been focused on treating the injured patients and making every effort to enhance their recovery rate. The doctors are striving to deliver the best possible treatment," Dr. Jain remarked.
Meanwhile, the burn victims, who are currently admitted to the burn unit of SMS Hospital in Jaipur, have sustained injuries covering nearly 50 per cent of their bodies.
The tragic accident resulted in the immediate death of four individuals, while eight others passed away during treatment at SMS Hospital on the same day, and one death occurred at Jaipuria Hospital.
The fire was so intense that five victims had to be identified through DNA analysis.
Among them was former IAS officer Karni Singh, whose identity was confirmed through DNA samples provided by his daughter.
Fifteen injured individuals have been discharged from the hospital; however, doctors caution that the severe burns have inflicted significant damage to healthy tissues, with potential long-term effects on the liver and kidneys for several victims.
In response to the catastrophe, the Central Transport Ministry removed NHAI regional officer Dinesh Chaturvedi on Friday, December 27, transferring him to Delhi, with Abdul Basil appointed as his successor.
Simultaneously, the relevant authorities, including NHAI, police, and other departments, continue to exchange blame regarding the causes of this tragic incident.
