At least 20 killed in bus fire after suspected short circuit in Rajasthan

A suspected short circuit caused a deadly fire on a passenger bus in northern India on Tuesday, killing at least 20 people. The bus, carrying 35 to 50 passengers, was about to start its journey between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur in Rajasthan when the fire broke out.

The flames spread rapidly, leaving passengers with no time to escape. Nineteen bodies were found on the bus, and one more person died from burns en route to the hospital. At least 15 others were critically injured.

The fire started due to smoke from the rear of the bus just minutes after departure. The bus, which had a single exit door and was fully loaded with air-conditioning gas, was quickly engulfed by flames, trapping passengers at the rear. Authorities are working to identify the victims using DNA evidence. Prime Minister Modi and local officials offered their condolences to the victims’ families.