December 20, 2024: In a tragic incident on Friday morning, five people lost their lives and more than 35 others were injured after a truck carrying chemicals collided with several vehicles and caught fire near a petrol pump on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway. The collision occurred in the Bhankrota area, triggering a massive blaze that engulfed multiple trucks.

According to initial reports, the chemical-laden truck collided with other vehicles, causing a fiery explosion. Video footage from the scene showed thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky as the vehicles burned. Some of the injured victims sustained severe burn injuries and were quickly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Manish Gupta, Station House Officer (SHO) of Bhankrota, confirmed the incident, stating, "The fire engulfed several trucks, but the exact number of vehicles involved is still unclear. Some individuals with burn injuries have been rushed to hospitals in ambulances." The fire caused widespread disruption, affecting nearly a 300-meter stretch of the highway and halting traffic. As a result, a long queue of vehicles formed, further complicating the situation.

Jaipur District Magistrate Jitendra Soni confirmed that around 40 vehicles had caught fire due to the explosion. He added that most of the blaze had been brought under control by fire crews.

The authorities have since opened a traffic corridor to facilitate the swift transport of the injured to the SMS Hospital in Jaipur. Emergency responders are continuing efforts to contain the damage, while investigations into the cause of the collision are underway.

The tragedy has raised serious concerns about the safety protocols for transporting hazardous chemicals, as well as the risks posed by accidents near fuel stations. Further details are expected as the situation develops.