Chemical Tanker Crash in Rajasthan Kills Two, Injures Five
A tanker truck carrying chemicals crashed in Rajasthan's Kotputli area on Tuesday. The accident resulted in two fatalities and five injuries. It also caused a significant chemical spill and fire. This incident severely disrupted traffic on National Highway 48, which connects Jaipur and Delhi.
Details of the Kotputli Accident
The tanker truck was transporting hazardous chemicals when it collided with another vehicle near Kotputli. The impact led to an immediate spill of the chemicals. A fire broke out shortly after the collision. Emergency services rushed to the scene to control the blaze and assist the victims.
Local authorities confirmed the death of two individuals at the accident site. Five other people sustained injuries and received medical treatment at nearby hospitals. Rescue operations faced challenges due to the chemical nature of the spill and the ongoing fire.
Traffic Chaos on NH-48
The crash caused a major traffic halt on NH-48, a crucial highway linking Jaipur and Delhi. Vehicles were stranded for several hours as officials worked to clear the wreckage and contain the chemical spill. Traffic police diverted vehicles to alternative routes to ease the congestion.
Commuters reported long delays and advised others to avoid the stretch until further notice. The highway remained partially closed for cleanup operations, affecting both passenger and commercial traffic.
Response and Investigation
Firefighters and disaster response teams worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire and neutralize the chemical spill. Environmental agencies are assessing the impact of the spill on the surrounding area. An investigation into the cause of the collision is underway.
Preliminary reports suggest possible factors like driver fatigue or mechanical failure. Authorities are reviewing safety protocols for transporting hazardous materials on busy highways. This accident highlights the risks associated with chemical transport on India's road networks.
The Kotputli incident serves as a grim reminder of road safety challenges. It underscores the need for stricter enforcement of traffic rules and better emergency preparedness. The community mourns the loss of life and hopes for a swift recovery for the injured.
