Jaisalmer, Oct 15 (V7N) — A tragic fire broke out in a passenger bus in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, on Tuesday afternoon, claiming the lives of 20 people and leaving several others injured. The incident occurred near the Thayat military base while the bus was traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur.

Eyewitnesses reported that smoke began emanating from the engine before the fire rapidly engulfed the entire bus. Panicked passengers attempted to escape, many jumping out of windows, with some falling onto the road and sustaining serious injuries.

The army personnel stationed nearby responded immediately and began rescue operations. The injured were rushed to a local hospital, while several fire brigade units arrived later to control the blaze. By that time, the bus had been completely reduced to ashes.

Local sources confirmed that the bus was carrying at least 57 passengers at the time of the incident. Both the driver and the assistant reportedly escaped unharmed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the tragedy on X, stating:

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the Jaisalmer accident. I express my condolences to the families of the deceased and wish the injured a speedy recovery.”

The Prime Minister's Office announced financial assistance for the victims: Rs 2 lakh for each deceased’s family and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

State authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest the blaze may have originated in the bus engine, though officials have emphasized that a detailed inquiry is needed to determine the exact cause.

The incident has left the people of Rajasthan in deep grief, highlighting urgent concerns over passenger safety on long-distance bus routes.

END/SMA/AJ