Jodhpur, November 2 (Udaipur Kiran) — In a horrific road accident in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur district, 15 pilgrims lost their lives when a Tempo Traveller collided with a stationary truck near Matoda village in the Bapini area of Phalodi subdivision on Saturday evening. Two others were reportedly seriously injured in the crash.

According to preliminary information, all passengers were returning to Bikaner district after visiting Kolayat when the accident occurred. The high-speed Tempo Traveller rammed into a truck parked along the roadside, leaving the vehicle completely mangled.

Local villagers rushed to the spot and immediately began rescue operations while informing the police. The injured were first taken to a hospital in Osian for initial treatment and later referred to Jodhpur for advanced medical care. Police and district administration officials reached the site to assess the situation, and efforts are underway to identify the deceased.

Matoda Police Station Officer Amanaram confirmed that the collision took place around 6:30 p.m. He said the impact was so severe that the Tempo Traveller was reduced to debris. With the help of local residents, police teams managed to extricate the trapped passengers and bodies after much effort. The deceased have been shifted to the Osian Government Hospital mortuary, while the injured continue to receive treatment.

A large crowd gathered at the site following the incident, reflecting the shock and grief that gripped the area.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a message posted on social media platform ‘X’, he wrote, “The loss of lives in the road accident in Matoda area of Phalodi is extremely painful and heart-wrenching. My condolences are with the bereaved families. District administration officials have been directed to ensure proper treatment of all the injured. I pray for peace to the departed souls and speedy recovery for the injured.”

Further details are awaited.