Rajasthan High Court Takes Suo Moto Cognizance of Massive LPG Fire on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway

In Re: Suo Moto Proceedings Regarding the Massive Fire Incident on Jaipur-Ajmer-Kishangarh-Bhankrota Highway

On 20.12.2024, at approximately 5:40 AM, a catastrophic fire broke out on the Jaipur-Ajmer-Kishangarh-Bhankrota Highway. The tragedy unfolded when a truck collided with an LPG tanker attempting a U-turn near a known accident-prone area, resulting in a massive explosion that claimed several lives, left many with severe burn injuries, and caused extensive destruction within an 800-meter radius.

Reports indicate that the fire ignited multiple explosions, leading to chaos and panic among residents and commuters. Educational institutions and businesses in the vicinity were forced to shut down, and traffic was rerouted.

Key Observations by the Court:

1. Recurring Fire Disasters:
   India has faced significant fire-related tragedies, from the Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984 to the Indian Oil Corporation Depot fire in Jaipur in 2009. Such incidents highlight the growing need for robust disaster management.

2. Impact on Lives and Environment:
   Fires involving chemicals or LPG pose severe risks to human lives, biodiversity, and property. The Court noted that incidents often stem from failures in process safety, human errors, or accidents during transportation.

3. Legislative Framework:
   The Court emphasized the existing provisions under laws like the Explosive Act, Petroleum Act, and Disaster Management Act. Despite these, the lack of proper implementation exacerbates the risks.

Court’s Directions and Concerns:

1. Accountability:
   Notices have been issued to the Union of India, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the State Government of Rajasthan, among others, seeking a thorough investigation into administrative lapses and negligence leading to this tragedy.

2. Compensation:
   The Court deemed the Central Government’s interim relief of ₹2 lakh for deceased families and ₹50,000 for injured individuals inadequate. It called for fair and sufficient compensation to all affected, including those whose properties and vehicles were damaged.

3. Relocation of Hazardous Units:
   The Court recommended relocating factories and storage units dealing with inflammable materials away from densely populated areas.

4. Road Safety Measures:
   Stressing the urgency of addressing black spots and accident-prone U-turns, the Court suggested the installation of danger alarms and other preventive measures to safeguard lives.

5. Infrastructure Delays:
   The slow pace of construction for bridges and overpasses on highways was criticized, with directions for setting strict timelines for completion and holding responsible officials accountable for delays.

6. Dedicated Routes for Hazardous Vehicles:
   The Court urged the creation of separate routes for vehicles carrying inflammable substances to minimize risks.

7. Enforcement of Disaster Management Plans:
   The Court directed immediate implementation of district-level disaster management plans, as mandated under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

Legal Assistance and Next Steps:
The Court appointed prominent legal experts, including the President of the High Court Bar Association and the Advocate General, to assist in these proceedings. Reports on measures taken by the Central and State Governments are to be submitted by the next hearing, scheduled for 10.01.2025.

Conclusion:
This suo moto initiative by the Rajasthan High Court aims to ensure accountability, provide justice to the victims, and take proactive steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for vigilance and swift action in safeguarding public safety.