Jaipur, Oct 15: At least 20 people were killed after a private bus, which was purchased only five days ago, caught fire on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur highway on Tuesday afternoon.

According to reports, the incident took place when the bus, carrying 57 passengers, was en route to Jodhpur in Rajasthan.

Meanwhile, smoke began emerging from the rear portion. The driver stopped the bus along the roadside, but within moments, the flames engulfed the vehicle.

Following the incident, locals rushed to the spot and rescued the victims.

Soon, fire engines and police were informed, who also reached the spot and took stock of the situation.

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Reportedly, 15 passengers - including four women and two children- sustained serious burn injuries, with some suffering up to 70 per cent burns. They were initially rushed to Jawahar Hospital in Jaisalmer and later referred to Jodhpur for advanced treatment.