At least 15 people were killed and three injured after a bus rammed a parked trailer in Rajasthan, police said.
The accident was reported from Phalodi district, nearly 400 km from capital Jaipur, near Matoda village on the Bharat Mala Highway.
According to police, the victims were residents of the Sursagar area in Jodhpur and were returning from the Kolayat temple in Bikaner after offering prayers at the Kapil Muni Ashram.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed grief over the incident and instructed officials to ensure all possible assistance to the victims’ families and proper medical care for the injured.
“The loss of lives in the road accident in the Matoda area of Phalodi is extremely tragic and heart-rending. My condolences are with the bereaved families. Instructions have been given to the district administration officials to ensure proper treatment for all the injured. I pray to the Lord to grant peace to the departed souls and provide speedy recovery to the injured,” the Chief Minister posted on X.
Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot also mourned the loss of lives.
“I have just received the news that 15 people have died in a road accident in Matoda, Phalodi. Hearing this, my heart is extremely saddened. I pray to God to grant a place at His holy feet to all the deceased, give strength to their families, and a speedy recovery to the injured,” Ashok Gehlot posted on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh to families who lost a loved one in the accident.
“Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Phalodi district, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” the Prime Minister’s Office posted on X.
“An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000,” said his office.
Twenty-six people were burnt alive when a sleeper bus caught fire in Jaisalmer last month. The fire broke out due to a short circuit in A/C. There was no exit gate in the bus. Following the accident, the transport department launched an intensive checking campaign against illegal modification and violation of permit norms.
Late last month, a private sleeper bus, carrying over 50 labourers from Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit, caught fire after coming in contact with a power line in Manoharpur area, leaving two persons dead and 10 others injured.