Jaisalmer: At least 20 people were killed and 16 others severely injured after a private bus travelling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire on Tuesday afternoon. Investigations have revealed that the vehicle, operated by KK Travels, had been converted into an AC sleeper coach with sealed glass windows and flammable interiors, which caused the flames to spread rapidly.
The incident occurred around 3 pm on the Jaisalmer Jodhpur highway when smoke was first seen coming from the rear of the bus. Despite the driver halting immediately, the fire engulfed the vehicle within minutes, trapping dozens of passengers inside.
Officials said the bus had a fibre-panelled interior, curtains, and toughened glass windows that made escape nearly impossible. The electrical short circuit that triggered the fire also locked the only exit door at the front, leaving passengers with no route to safety. While some managed to break through the windows, many were unable to get out in time.
An Army team stationed nearby rushed to the site and used a JCB machine to break open the jammed door. A liquor contractor from the area also assisted by bringing an Army water tanker to help douse the flames. However, by the time the fire brigade arrived about 45 minutes after the first alert much of the bus had already been destroyed.
The injured were taken to Jawahar Hospital in Jaisalmer, with 16 critically hurt passengers later referred to a facility in Jodhpur. Authorities have launched a probe into the fire and the bus operator’s alleged safety violations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased. President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also conveyed condolences.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma visited the site and directed officials to provide the best possible treatment to the injured and full assistance to affected families. The government has issued helpline numbers and initiated relief operations. Officials have also stressed the urgent need to review safety standards for modified AC sleeper buses and improve emergency response mechanisms on highways.
