Jaipur: At least 11 people lost their lives in a devastating fire that erupted following a truck collision near a petrol pump on Ajmer Road early Friday morning.
According to various media reports, the incident occurred around 5:30 am when a parked CNG tanker caught fire after a truck collided with other vehicles in the vicinity.
Officials fear the death toll could rise as more than 40 individuals sustained injuries, with at least 28 reported to be in critical condition.
The explosion—so intense that vehicles within a 300-meter radius were engulfed and burned completely—was reportedly heard up to 10 kilometers away. Witnesses described repeated explosions as multiple fuel tanks burst into flames, spreading the fire further.
According to preliminary investigations, the truck involved in the collision was reportedly carrying a chemical, which may have exacerbated the blaze. Station House Officer (SHO) of Bhankrota, Manish Gupta, stated to news agency PTI that several trucks were engulfed in the fire, though the exact number remains unclear.
Firefighting teams are currently battling to contain the blaze, which has consumed numerous vehicles parked nearby. Rescue operations are underway, and the injured are being rushed to hospitals. Visuals from the site show a massive inferno with clouds of black smoke visible from several kilometers away.
Further investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident and assess the full extent of the damage.