Rajasthan Bus Inferno Claims 20 Lives, Sparks Safety Concerns Over Converted Sleeper Coaches

Jaisalmer, October 14 — At least 20 people were burnt alive and 16 others critically injured when a private bus travelling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire on Tuesday afternoon, in what is being described as one of the deadliest road tragedies in recent years.

The ill-fated vehicle, operated by KK Travels, had been introduced on the route barely five days earlier. Preliminary reports now suggest that the air-conditioned coach had been converted into a sleeper bus, with several design modifications that likely worsened the impact of the fire.

The blaze broke out around 3 p.m. on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway, when smoke was seen billowing from the rear of the bus. Although the driver stopped immediately, the flames spread within seconds, engulfing the vehicle before most passengers could escape.

Converted Sleeper Coach Design Under Scrutiny

Investigations have revealed that the bus had been retrofitted with fibre interiors, curtains, and reinforced glass windows, features that trapped heat and smoke once the fire began. The bus was also overcrowded, with several passengers seated in the narrow aisle.

As the flames intensified, the electrical wiring short-circuited, reportedly causing the front exit door to jam, leaving passengers trapped inside. While a few managed to shatter windows and escape, many succumbed before help could arrive.

An Army rescue team from a nearby military base reached the scene swiftly and used a JCB machine to break open the main door. Local residents, including a liquor contractor from a nearby shop, also assisted by bringing an Army water tanker to help douse the fire.

Tragically, the fire brigade arrived nearly 45 minutes after being alerted, by which time the bus had been completely gutted.

Rescue, Relief, and Official Response

The injured were initially rushed to Jawahar Hospital, and 16 critically injured passengers were later transferred to a specialized facility in Jodhpur for advanced treatment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the tragedy and announced an ex gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives. President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan also conveyed condolences to the bereaved families.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma visited Jaisalmer and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured. He also instructed the district administration to provide immediate assistance to affected families. Helpline numbers were issued, and relief operations were launched on an urgent basis.

Officials have now called for a comprehensive safety review of converted AC sleeper coaches operating in the state, emphasizing the urgent need for fire safety audits and improved emergency preparedness on highways.