At least 15 people lost their lives and two others were seriously injured when a tempo traveller carrying devotees collided with a stationary trailer truck in Rajasthan’s Phalodi on Sunday, police said.
The tragic accident took place near Matoda village on the Bharat Mala Highway, officials added. “Fifteen passengers died, while two others sustained serious injuries. The injured were first taken to a hospital in Osian for primary treatment and later referred to Jodhpur,” Jodhpur Police Commissioner Om Prakash said.
According to police, the victims were residents of the Sursagar area in Jodhpur and were returning from the Kolayat temple in Bikaner after offering prayers at the Kapil Muni Ashram. All the bodies have been kept in the mortuary of the Osian government hospital.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the incident and directed officials to provide all necessary assistance to the victims' families and ensure proper medical care for the injured.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also conveyed his condolences. In a post on X, he wrote, “I have just received the news that 15 people have died in a road accident in Matoda, Phalodi. Hearing this, my heart is extremely saddened. I pray to God to grant a place at His holy feet to all the deceased, give strength to their families, and a speedy recovery to the injured.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned the loss of lives in the Phalodi accident. “Saddened by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Phalodi district, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected people and their families during this difficult time. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” the PMO said in a post on X.
The Prime Minister’s Office announced that an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh each from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund would be provided to the next of kin of those who died, while the injured would receive ₹50,000 each.