10 Army personnel killed, 10 injured after vehicle falls into gorge in Doda, J&K
Doda, Jammu and Kashmir: At least 10 Army personnel lost their lives and ten others were injured after their vehicle plunged into a 200-foot-deep gorge in the Bhaderwah area of Doda district.
Officials said the Army vehicle was en route to a high-altitude post when the driver lost control, causing it to fall into the gorge. The accident occurred at Khanni Top along the Bhaderwah–Chamba interstate road.
A joint rescue operation by the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police is underway. Initially, four soldiers were found dead, but the toll later rose to 10. Several of the injured sustained critical injuries and were airlifted to the Udhampur Military Hospital for specialised treatment.
Condolences pour in
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condoled the loss and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. His office tweeted that he “conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the soldiers who lost their lives and lauded the swift rescue and evacuation efforts.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed grief, tweeting: “Deeply saddened by the tragic road accident in Doda in which we lost our 10 brave soldiers of the Indian Army. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The injured soldiers are receiving medical care, and all necessary directions have been given to ensure the best possible treatment. The nation stands with our Armed Forces and their families in this difficult hour.”
Union Minister Jitendra Singh described the accident as shocking and said all possible medical aid is being provided. “Deeply shocked to learn about the tragic accident of an Army vehicle on Bhaderwah–Chamba road, in which 10 Jawans lost their lives and another 10 were seriously injured,” he tweeted. “All possible medical aid is being provided. No words are enough to convey deep sense of reverence for our brave Jawans. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families.”
Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha also expressed sorrow, tweeting: “Deeply saddened at the loss of lives of 10 of our brave Indian Army soldiers in an unfortunate road accident in Doda. We will always remember their outstanding service and supreme sacrifice. My deepest condolences to the grieving families.”
The Army and police continue their rescue and relief operations in the area.