Rajasthan is once again in mourning following a horrific road accident in Phalodi on Sunday, where a minibus carrying pilgrims caught fire, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people. This tragedy strikes less than three weeks after a similar incident on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur highway claimed 20 lives.
Jodhpur Police Commissioner Om Prakash confirmed that 15 passengers perished and two sustained severe injuries. The injured were initially treated at a hospital in Osian before being transferred to Jodhpur for further medical care.
The fatal collision occurred near Matoda village on the Bharat Mala Highway when the tempo traveler carrying devotees veered off course and struck a stationary trailer truck, igniting a fierce blaze.
The victims, who were primarily residents of Jodhpur’s Sursagar area, had been on a pilgrimage to the Kolayat temple in Bikaner and were returning after offering prayers at the Kapil Muni Ashram. Their bodies have been kept at the Osian government hospital’s mortuary.
Expressing his deep sorrow, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has directed officials to provide comprehensive assistance to the affected families and ensure the best possible medical treatment for those injured.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also shared his grief, tweeting, “I have just received the news that 15 people have died in a road accident in Matoda, Phalodi. Hearing this, my heart is extremely saddened. I pray to God to grant a place at His holy feet to all the deceased, give strength to their families, and a speedy recovery to the injured.”