Jaipur, October 8 (Udaipur Kiran): Panic gripped the Maujmabad area of Jaipur district late Tuesday night after a truck loaded with LPG cylinders caught fire following a collision with a trailer on the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway. The impact caused the truck to overturn, triggering a series of massive cylinder explosions that could be heard several kilometers away.

According to police officials, flames engulfed the vehicle, leading to one cylinder after another exploding and scattering debris across nearby fields. The explosions were so intense that seven other vehicles on the highway also caught fire, and several people were reportedly injured.

Rescue Operations Underway

On receiving the alert, teams from the police and fire department rushed to the spot. Multiple fire tenders are battling the blaze, which is being fueled by the large number of LPG cylinders onboard. The highway has been sealed from both directions, and traffic has been diverted to prevent further mishaps.

Dudu ASP Shivlal Bairwa confirmed that the incident took place near Sawarda Bridge. He said that rescue and relief operations are ongoing, and the district administration is on high alert.

Driver and Cleaner Missing

Authorities fear that the truck driver and cleaner may have been trapped and burnt alive, as both remain missing since the explosion. Search operations are being carried out to locate them.

Widespread Panic and Damage

Witnesses reported deafening blasts and flying cylinder fragments landing far from the site, spreading fear across nearby villages. The sound of explosions was heard up to 10 kilometers away.

The highway has been closed due to dense smoke and fire hazards, leading to long traffic jams on both sides. Police have urged travelers to avoid the route and use alternative paths.

Official Response

Jaipur District Collector Dr. Jitendra Kumar Soni and senior police officials reached the site to oversee operations. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed concern over the incident and directed officials to remain vigilant and ensure public safety.

Deputy CM Premchand Bairwa, who visited the spot, confirmed that the truck driver was among the casualties, while no major civilian loss has been reported so far. Injured individuals have been rushed to SMS Hospital in Jaipur for treatment.

Rescue efforts are continuing as fire officials attempt to douse the remaining flames and secure the area.