Tragedy struck Rajasthan’s Jodhpur district on Sunday with a horrific road accident claiming 18 lives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sadness over the incident and pledged support for the victims and their families. The Prime Minister’s Office announced that financial aid will be disbursed through the PMNRF. Each family of the deceased will receive an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh, while those injured will be provided Rs. 50,000 for medical expenses and recovery.
The incident took place in Phalodi, near the Matoda village, when a tempo traveller, reportedly carrying religious pilgrims, collided with a parked trailer truck. The impact was catastrophic, leading to the severe mangling of the tempo traveller’s front. First responders, including police and local volunteers, worked tirelessly to extricate trapped individuals and ensure prompt medical attention at local hospitals.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma also conveyed his condolences and mandated swift medical care for all injured parties. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause, with police examining both vehicles for mechanical faults and considering environmental factors like low visibility and speed. The passengers were on their way back from a religious gathering in Bikaner when the fatal collision occurred.