Jaipur-Ajmer Highway Inferno: Chemical Tanker Explosion Claims Driver's Life
A horrifying incident unfolded on the Jaipur-Ajmer National Highway this week as a chemical tanker, laden with methanol, overturned and erupted in flames. The tragic event resulted in the death of the tanker driver and sparked widespread panic, bringing traffic to a standstill.
The incident occurred near Maukhampura town. According to Maukhampura Police, the deceased has been identified as Rajendra Zinda, the tanker driver. He tragically died on the spot due to the severity of the burns sustained in the explosion.
Chaos and Panic Ensue
The overturned tanker rapidly became engulfed in flames, with thick plumes of smoke visible from hundreds of metres away. This terrifying sight triggered immediate panic amongst drivers and commuters in the vicinity. Many, fearing a potential explosion due to the highly flammable methanol, abandoned their vehicles on the highway and fled into nearby fields seeking safety.
"The tanker suddenly overturned and turned into a ball of fire," recounted eyewitnesses travelling towards Jaipur. "Everyone panicked. We stopped our car and ran back to save ourselves. Thankfully, no other lives were lost." This sentiment echoes the sheer terror experienced by those who witnessed the catastrophic event.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Emergency services, including the fire brigade and police, swiftly responded to the scene in an attempt to bring the raging fire under control. The presence of methanol, a highly flammable substance, significantly complicated firefighting efforts.
Authorities were forced to divert traffic onto a single lane of the National Highway while they worked to clear the wreckage and restore normal traffic flow. The accident caused a traffic jam stretching several kilometres, exacerbating the already chaotic situation. The scene was one of mass abandonment as motorists left their vehicles behind in a desperate attempt to escape the potential danger.
Investigation Underway
A police team is currently investigating the cause of the tanker's overturning. The investigation will likely involve a thorough examination of the vehicle, the road conditions, and the driver's records to determine the factors that contributed to this devastating accident.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the transportation of hazardous materials and highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols to prevent future tragedies. More information will be provided as the investigation proceeds.
Key Takeaways:
- Chemical tanker carrying methanol overturned and caught fire on the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway.
- The tanker driver, Rajendra Zinda, died at the scene due to severe burns.
- Commuters panicked and abandoned their vehicles, fearing an explosion.
- Emergency services responded, diverting traffic and working to clear the wreckage.
- An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.
The tragic event has left the community shaken, and underscores the need for improved safety measures and emergency preparedness on major highways.