A major accident created panic on the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway in Rajasthan, when a tanker collided with a truck carrying LPG cylinders, triggering multiple explosions. The horrifying incident occurred near Dudu, around 70 kilometers from Jaipur, and sent shockwaves through the region. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as fireballs shot into the air, causing traffic to come to a standstill and leaving people running for safety.
How the Accident Happened
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred when a speeding LPG tanker lost control and rammed into a stationary truck loaded with gas cylinders. The impact was so severe that several cylinders exploded instantly, engulfing both vehicles in flames. The fire quickly spread across the road, making it impossible for drivers and locals to approach the spot. Authorities believe that the highly flammable nature of LPG intensified the explosion, leading to secondary blasts that continued for nearly 30 minutes.
Firefighters Battle the Inferno
Within minutes, multiple fire tenders from Jaipur and nearby towns reached the site. Firefighters faced extreme difficulty in controlling the blaze due to continuous cylinder explosions. Thick black smoke filled the air, making visibility nearly zero. Fire officials had to keep a safe distance while cooling the cylinders using foam and water jets. It took over three hours to bring the situation under control. Fortunately, the quick response of emergency teams prevented the fire from spreading to nearby villages and vehicles stuck in traffic.
Traffic Chaos and Panic Among Commuters
The incident caused massive traffic jams on both sides of the highway, with vehicles stranded for several kilometers. Travelers were forced to wait for hours as police diverted traffic through alternate routes. Many commuters abandoned their vehicles and moved to safer distances fearing further blasts. Panic gripped the area as the explosions continued intermittently, and several videos of the incident quickly went viral on social media, showing the terrifying scale of the fire.
Rescue Operations and Police Investigation
Police teams, along with local administration officials, immediately reached the site and began rescue operations. Ambulances were stationed nearby, and medical teams provided first aid to those suffering from minor burns and smoke inhalation. Initial investigations suggest negligence and over-speeding as potential causes. Authorities are now examining whether the tanker was following proper safety regulations for transporting LPG. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team has been called in to collect samples and determine the exact cause of the explosion.
A Wake-Up Call for Road Safety
The tragic LPG tanker explosion on the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with transporting highly flammable substances. While timely action by firefighters and police helped avert a larger disaster, the incident exposes serious gaps in road safety management and regulatory enforcement. Strengthening emergency preparedness, driver training, and vehicle inspection systems is crucial to avoid such fiery mishaps. This highway tragedy should prompt authorities and transport companies alike to prioritize safety over speed — before another spark ignites another disaster.
