Daijiworld Media Network - Jaipur

Jaipur, Oct 28: In a tragic incident near Jaipur, two people were burnt to death and several others injured after a bus carrying labourers came in contact with an 11,000-kilovolt high-tension power line on Sunday. The power line reportedly broke and fell on the vehicle, causing an electric shock followed by a massive fire.

The bus, carrying labourers from Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh to work at a brick kiln in Todi, caught fire soon after the wire snapped. Five of the injured labourers, who are in critical condition, have been shifted to Sawai Man Singh Hospital in Jaipur, while four others are being treated at Shahpura Sub-District Hospital.

The Fire Department managed to douse the flames after a prolonged effort, while police have launched an investigation and are identifying victims through their belongings and ID cards.

The deceased have been identified as Naseem (50) and his daughter Sahinam (20). Among those injured are Nazma, Sitara, Naheem, Azar, and Altaaf.

According to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, the bus was overloaded with luggage on its roof, which came in contact with the high-tension wire, causing it to snap and ignite the blaze. Villagers, however, claimed that they had earlier complained to electricity department officials about the damaged wire but no action was taken.

Officials confirmed that the bus was carrying 15 LPG cylinders, two of which exploded during the fire, intensifying the tragedy. Firefighters said that around 25 passengers were rescued from the burning bus.

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed deep grief over the incident, terming it heartbreaking and urging authorities to ensure better road and safety measures across the state.