19 killed, dozens injured as drunk truck driver goes on rampage in Jaipur
At least 19 people were killed and several others seriously injured after a dumper truck driver, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, went on a five-kilometre rampage through Rajasthan’s Jaipur late Sunday night, police said.
The speeding truck lost control on Lohamandi Road, crashing into several vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and roadside stalls, before overturning after a major collision that brought its destructive run to an end.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as “horrific,” with the driver appearing heavily intoxicated and continuing to speed despite repeated collisions. “He was driving like a madman — crushing everything in front of him,” said a shopkeeper who narrowly escaped the crash.
Local police and rescue teams rushed to the spot, using cranes and cutters to remove mangled vehicles and pull out trapped victims from the wreckage. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals, including Sawai Man Singh Hospital, where many are reported to be in critical condition.
Driver detained, probe underway
Police have detained the driver and are conducting medical tests to confirm whether he was under the influence of alcohol. “Preliminary investigation suggests reckless driving and possible intoxication,” said a senior police official, adding that identification of victims is currently underway.
The Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed grief over the tragedy and instructed officials to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured and immediate support to the victims’ families.
PM announces ex-gratia assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the deaths and announced financial aid from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).
“Pained by the loss of lives due to a mishap in Jaipur, Rajasthan. My thoughts are with those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover soon,” the PMO said in a statement.
The Prime Minister announced ₹2 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and ₹50,000 for those injured.
Second tragedy in two days
This deadly rampage came barely a day after 15 devotees were killed and two injured when a tempo traveller rammed into a stationary trailer truck near Phalodi in Jodhpur district. The victims were residents of Sursagar, returning from the Kolayat Temple in Bikaner after offering prayers at the Kapil Muni Ashram.
Sunday’s incidents have sparked renewed concern over rising cases of drunk and reckless driving in Rajasthan, with officials urging stricter enforcement and road safety measures.
