A horrific accident in Jaipur claimed 19 lives after a dumper truck driver, allegedly intoxicated, went on a five-kilometre rampage along Lohamandi Road, ramming into vehicles and pedestrians.
Eyewitnesses reported that the driver kept speeding despite multiple collisions, crushing cars and motorcycles in his path. The chaos ended only after the truck crashed and came to a halt, leaving several vehicles mangled. Rescue teams and police rushed to the scene, pulling victims from the wreckage and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals.
Police detained the driver and initiated medical tests to confirm alcohol consumption. Officials are working to identify the deceased and ensure proper care for the injured.
The tragedy occurred just a day after another fatal crash in Phalodi, Rajasthan, where a tempo traveller carrying devotees collided with a stationary trailer truck, killing 15 and injuring two. The victims were returning from Kolayat temple in Bikaner.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the Jaipur incident. “Pained by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Jaipur, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon,” the PM’s office stated.
He announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of each victim and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma also conveyed his condolences and directed officials to provide all necessary support and medical assistance.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns over road safety and the enforcement of driving regulations, especially regarding intoxicated driving.
