Jaipur: A horrific road accident occurred on the Bharatmala highway (NH-15) in Phalodi, Rajasthan, approximately 40 kilometers from Jodhpur, when a mini bus carrying passengers crashed into a stationary trailer. The collision tragically resulted in 15 fatalities and left two individuals with serious injuries. The injured have been transported to Jodhpur for medical attention.
According to Jodhpur Police Commissioner Om Prakash Paswan, the bus, with an estimated 18 to 20 passengers on board, was en route from Bikaner’s Kolayat, where they had visited Kapil Muni Ashram.
The trailer was reportedly parked near a roadside dhaba on the Bharatmala highway. Police sources indicated that the bus was traveling at high speed and lost control while attempting to overtake another truck, leading to the severe collision. The impact was so intense that the front of the bus was completely crushed, causing the immediate death of 15 occupants.
Local residents quickly responded to the scene to initiate rescue efforts. Among the deceased were four minors, the bus driver, and ten women. The identification process for the victims is currently underway.
Condolences have poured in from national leaders. President Droupadi Murmu expressed her profound sadness, calling the news “extremely heartbreaking.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured, stating, “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Phalodi district, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma also conveyed his grief and has directed Soorsagar MLA Devendra Joshi to closely monitor the situation and assist those affected by the tragedy.