A religious journey turned tragic in Rajasthan after three pilgrims from Maharashtra lost their lives when their bus collided with a trailer on the Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway early Saturday morning.
The accident occurred around 1:50 am near Bagru in Jaipur district, as the bus was descending the Bagru culvert. According to police, the trailer was already on fire when the collision took place.
The bus was carrying 28 pilgrims from Nashik, Maharashtra, who were travelling to the Sanwariya Seth temple in Chittorgarh after visiting the Khatushyamji temple.
Three Passengers Die on the Spot
The collision claimed three lives at the scene. Police identified the deceased as Mahendra, 38, Sandeep, 45, and Deepak, 47.
Passengers seated in the front section of the bus sustained serious injuries due to the impact. The collision also left the vehicle badly damaged, trapping some passengers inside.
Police personnel and local residents rushed to the spot and helped rescue those trapped in the wreckage. The injured were subsequently taken to Sawai Man Singh Hospital in Jaipur for medical treatment.
Seven Injured Taken to Jaipur Hospital
Seven injured passengers were taken to the trauma centre at Sawai Man Singh Hospital.
According to hospital officials, two patients were in critical condition, while three others were kept under observation. The remaining two received first aid and were discharged.
Medical teams attended to the injured, while authorities continued gathering information about the accident.
Police Launch Investigation
Police have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances that led to the collision. The exact cause of the crash has not yet been conclusively determined.
The incident highlights concerns over highway safety, particularly during overnight journeys involving passenger vehicles and heavy commercial transport.
Further details about the circumstances of the collision are awaited as the investigation continues.