What Happened in the Jaisalmer Bus Tragedy?
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Synopsis
The tragic bus fire on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur highway has claimed 20 lives, prompting deep sorrow from leaders like PM Modi and President Murmu. This incident highlights the urgent need for improved road safety measures. Discover the details of this heartbreaking event and the response from officials and the community.
Key Takeaways
- 20 lives were lost in a tragic bus fire.
- Immediate financial aid has been announced for victims' families.
- The fire was likely caused by a faulty air conditioning unit.
- Over 15 survivors are receiving treatment for severe injuries.
- Calls for stricter safety regulations are being made.
Jaisalmer, Oct 14 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of 20 lives in a devastating bus fire on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur highway, declaring immediate financial support for the families of the victims.
In a moving message shared on X, the PM's office stated: "I am deeply distressed by the loss of lives resulting from the accident in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected individuals and their families during this challenging period. I am praying for the swift recovery of those injured. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased. Additionally, the injured will receive Rs 50,000."
President Droupadi Murmu shared the nation's grief, posting on her official X account: “The news regarding the loss of lives in the bus fire in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, is profoundly saddening. I extend my deepest condolences to the grieving families and wish for a quick recovery for the injured.”
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also conveyed his sympathies to the families of the victims.
“The loss of lives due to the bus igniting on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur highway is extremely heartbreaking. I extend my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragedy. I pray to God that He grants peace to the departed souls and protects as many travelers as possible,”
The catastrophic fire broke out around 3:30 pm on Tuesday in an air-conditioned sleeper bus carrying 57 passengers to Jodhpur. Within moments, flames—believed to have been ignited by a malfunctioning air conditioning unit—consumed the vehicle near Thaiyat village, trapping numerous individuals inside as doors reportedly jammed.
Videos circulating online depict thick black smoke and desperate cries, with locals and passersby urgently attempting rescues.
Pokaran MLA Pratap Puri confirmed that 19 bodies were retrieved from the charred remains, with one passenger succumbing while en route to Jodhpur. Due to severe burns making identification challenging, authorities have mandated DNA testing.
Among the deceased are families, including at least three children and four women, many of whom were returning from a pilgrimage in Jaisalmer.
Over 15 survivors, including 30-year-old Imamat and her son, sustained serious burns to their faces, hands, and legs. Eight ambulances transported 16 injured individuals to Jodhpur’s AIIMS via a police-escorted green corridor on National Highway 125, while three others moved early survivors to Jaisalmer’s Jawahir Hospital.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, who hurried to Jaisalmer, described the incident as “heart-wrenching” and announced Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia per deceased family, along with free treatment for the injured.
“We’ve directed top-tier medical care and all possible assistance for those affected,” Sharma stated, launching a high-level investigation into safety oversights. Local villagers who broke windows to rescue passengers were praised, although one 22-year-old farmer suffered smoke inhalation during the effort.
Former CM Ashok Gehlot called for stricter bus safety regulations, highlighting that Rajasthan recorded over 14,000 road fatalities in 2024. Experts are now advocating for mandatory fire suppression systems and inspections of AC units.
Point of View
We stand united with the nation in mourning this tragic loss of life. It is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities on our roads and the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to protect travelers.
NationPress
15/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the bus fire in Jaisalmer?
The fire is suspected to have been ignited by a faulty air conditioning unit.
How many people were affected by the tragedy?
A total of 20 lives were lost, and over 15 individuals sustained serious injuries.
What assistance is being provided to the victims' families?
Families of the deceased will receive Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF, and Rs 50,000 will be given to the injured.
Who responded to the incident?
Leaders including Prime Minister Modi and President Murmu expressed their condolences and support for the victims.
What are the calls for after this tragedy?
There are renewed calls for stricter bus safety regulations and mandatory inspections of safety equipment.
