Jaipur: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Thursday sanctioned financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for each family affected by the Jodhpur–Jaisalmer Highway bus tragedy. Families that lost three or more members will receive Rs 25 lakh each. Those seriously injured will be given Rs 2 lakh each, while other injured individuals will get Rs 1 lakh each. The incident occurred near Thaiyat village in Jodhpur district on Tuesday when the bus, carrying about 57 passengers, caught fire after an engine malfunction reportedly caused sparks in the rear section. The flames quickly spread, creating panic among the passengers. Local residents, police, and fire personnel responded promptly to rescue efforts. Despite their attempts, 21 passengers lost their lives.
The Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing that the state government is with the affected families during this painful time. He stated, “This is a painful tragedy. We share the grief of the families who have lost their loved ones and assure full government support for the injured.” In a humanitarian act, the Chief Minister adjusted the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund rules to expedite assistance for the victims’ families. CM Sharma has instructed district officials to ensure the best medical care for the injured and offer necessary support to the dependents of the deceased. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to stand by its citizens during crises.
The Prime Minister’s Relief Fund has also approved a payment of Rs 2 lakh each for the deceased’s families and Rs 50,000 for the injured.