Jaisalmer Bus Fire Tragedy Claims Several Lives, Investigation Underway Now

A horrific accident occurred in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer district early Monday morning when a passenger bus caught fire, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, as authorities continue to identify victims and determine the cause of the blaze.

According to early reports, the private bus was traveling from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer when the fire broke out near Pokhran highway. Eyewitnesses said flames engulfed the vehicle within minutes, giving passengers little time to escape. Locals and nearby truck drivers rushed to the scene to help rescue those trapped inside before firefighters arrived.

Officials have confirmed that at least 20 people have died, while more than 15 others sustained serious burn injuries. Many of the victims were seated toward the rear of the bus, where the fire reportedly started. The injured have been admitted to Jaisalmer District Hospital and some were later referred to Jodhpur for specialized treatment.

Preliminary investigations suggest that a short circuit in the engine compartment may have triggered the fire. However, authorities have not ruled out other possibilities, including a fuel leak or mechanical failure. Forensic teams have been dispatched to the scene to collect evidence and determine the exact cause.

District Collector Rajendra Singh said emergency services acted swiftly once the fire was reported. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of life. Our priority now is to ensure proper medical care for the injured and support for the victims’ families,” he stated.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed his condolences and announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives, and ₹1 lakh for the injured. He also ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The state government has directed the Transport Department to conduct safety inspections on all long-distance buses operating in Rajasthan. This comes amid growing concerns about vehicle safety standards, especially for private operators who often overlook regular maintenance.

Meanwhile, videos of the burning bus circulated widely on social media, drawing public outrage and emotional reactions. Many users called for stricter enforcement of safety norms and criminal action against negligent operators.

As rescue operations concluded, the atmosphere at the site remained tense and somber. Families of missing passengers gathered at hospitals and police stations, hoping for information about their loved ones.

This tragic event has once again raised serious questions about passenger safety, emergency response infrastructure, and road transport regulations in India. Authorities have promised swift action—but for many grieving families, the damage is already irreparable.