Tragic Accident in Rajasthan Claims 15 Lives
In a devastating road accident, a mini-bus carrying religious devotees collided with a truck near Bharatpur, Rajasthan, early Tuesday, killing at least 15 people and leaving several critically injured. Authorities suspect driver fatigue and dense fog contributed to the crash.
Details of the Collision
Eyewitnesses reported that the mini-bus, en route to Mathura’s temple, slammed into a stationary truck on the highway. The impact crushed the front of the bus, trapping passengers inside. Rescue teams, including NDRF personnel, arrived swiftly, but many victims were declared dead on arrival.
A senior Bharatpur police officer stated, “The bus carried 25 passengers, mostly women and elderly devotees. Poor visibility due to fog or driver fatigue may have caused the crash.”
Victims and Survivors
Among the deceased were 12 women, two men, and a child from Alwar district. Survivors with severe injuries were rushed to nearby hospitals, some in critical condition. Grieving relatives gathered at accident sites and hospitals, seeking updates.
A distraught family member said, “My mother was on her first pilgrimage in years—we never imagined she wouldn’t return.”
Government Response
Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma announced ₹5 lakh ex-gratia for victims’ families and ordered a probe into potential negligence. The transport department is checking if the bus was overspeeding or lacked safety measures.
A state official urged, “Drivers must exercise extreme caution in foggy conditions to prevent such tragedies.”
Road Safety Crisis in Rajasthan
Rajasthan has one of India’s highest road fatality rates due to poor highway conditions, reckless driving, and inadequate lighting. Experts demand stricter traffic enforcement and better infrastructure.
A road safety activist emphasized, “Fog-related crashes are preventable if drivers follow speed limits and use fog lights.”
A Call for Action
This accident echoes past tragedies, like the 2018 Sawai Madhopur crash that killed 24. Overloading, poor maintenance, and hazardous roads remain unresolved issues.
Next Steps
Authorities are investigating the bus operator’s license and vehicle fitness. Meanwhile, the community mourns, questioning if enough is done to save lives on Rajasthan’s deadly roads.
Stay updated with NextMinuteNews for more on this developing story.
By [Your Name], Senior Correspondent, NextMinuteNews
Published: [Date]
