A somber mood has settled over Rajasthan’s Jodhpur district following a deadly road accident that claimed the lives of 18 people and left several others wounded. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his deep sorrow and solidarity with the affected families, announcing immediate financial assistance. Through the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), the next of kin of those who perished will receive Rs. 2 lakh, while those sustaining injuries will get Rs. 50,000.
The incident occurred on Sunday in Phalodi’s Matoda area, a region about 160 km from Jodhpur. A tempo traveller, carrying individuals returning from a religious event in Bikaner, crashed into a trailer truck that was stopped on the roadside. The collision resulted in a horrific scene, with the tempo traveller’s front end becoming unrecognizable and trapping occupants. Rescue teams and local police, with the invaluable help of citizens, worked to free the trapped and injured, transferring them to nearby medical facilities.
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to pinpoint the exact cause, considering possibilities ranging from mechanical defects in either vehicle to human error such as fatigue or speeding. Environmental conditions like poor visibility are also being evaluated as potential contributing factors to this tragic accident. The state’s Chief Minister has also directed officials to ensure comprehensive medical care for the injured.