20 killed, several others injured in Jaisalmer bus fire, PM Modi mourns deaths, announces Rs 2 lakh aid

At least 20 people died after a private bus travelling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire on Tuesday, confirmed a BJP MLA from Pokaran.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the incident, tweeting, “Distressed by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

The Prime Minister also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased, while the injured will receive Rs 50,000.

Vice President of India, CP Radhakrishnan, also expressed his sorrow, saying, “Deeply anguished by the loss of lives in the tragic bus fire incident in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

The bus, carrying 57



passengers, had left Jaisalmer around 3 pm. While travelling on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway, smoke was observed emerging from the rear of the vehicle. The driver immediately stopped the bus on the roadside, but within moments, it was engulfed in flames.

Locals and passers-by rushed to the scene to help, while fire tenders and police arrived promptly. Injured passengers were initially taken to Jawahar Hospital in Jaisalmer, and 16 critically injured individuals were later referred to a hospital in Jodhpur for advanced treatment.

Police said preliminary investigations indicate that a short circuit may have caused the fire.

The Jaisalmer district administration confirmed that relief and rescue operations were launched immediately. District Collector Pratap Singh directed officials to ensure that all injured passengers received prompt medical attention, and helpline numbers were issued for families seeking information about those affected.