How Did the Jaisalmer Bus Fire Tragedy Result in 26 Deaths?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Jaisalmer bus fire has led to a death toll of 26.
- Victims include a mother who lost her three children.
- The bus was found to have illegal modifications and ignored safety standards.
- A Special Investigation Team has been established to address the incident.
- Authorities are focused on the ongoing care of the injured.
Jaipur, Oct 21 (NationPress) The heartbreaking incident involving a bus fire in Jaisalmer has led to a rise in the death toll to 26, as another injured victim has passed away during medical treatment.
Dr. Fateh Singh Bhati, the Superintendent of Mahatma Gandhi Hospital, confirmed that the latest casualty is Om Prakash, aged 40, from Lathi village in Jaisalmer district.
“Om Prakash was receiving care on a ventilator and succumbed to his injuries today,” Dr. Bhati reported on Tuesday. Currently, six individuals are still hospitalized, with one on a ventilator and five in the general ward.
Among the victims was a woman named Imamat, who tragically lost her three children just a day before this incident. Her husband, who is in critical condition, has been transferred to Ahmedabad for advanced treatment.
Initially, 20 passengers died at the scene, while an additional six succumbed to their injuries in the subsequent days. Authorities have initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Superintendent of Police Abhishek Shivhare confirmed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was established immediately following the incident.
As a result of a complaint by Chandan Singh, the brother of the late journalist Rajendra Singh Chauhan, the bus owner Turab Ali and the driver Shaukat have been taken into custody.
Initial findings indicate that the bus chassis was manufactured at the Jainam Coach Crafts Workshop in Mogra, which is owned by the same company. Allegations suggest that the workshop neglected essential AIS 119 safety standards, completing the chassis, wiring, and bodywork without the necessary approvals.
Further examination revealed that the bus was initially registered as a non-AC vehicle but was unlawfully modified to include air conditioning and additional seating. Faulty wiring is suspected to have sparked the fire.
Investigators also discovered that the emergency exit was inadequately sized and blocked by two seats, further complicating evacuation efforts.
As the investigation continues, authorities are closely monitoring the condition of the injured.