Ten Indian Army personnel have died after their military vehicle fell into a deep ravine in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday.
Several other soldiers sustained injuries in the tragic incident.
The accident took place around noon at Khanni Top, a location situated around 9,000 feet above sea level along the Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate highway.
According to reports, the driver of an armoured army vehicle, which was en route to a high-altitude military post, lost control of the vehicle. This led to the vehicle skidding off the road and plummeting into a gorge nearly 200 feet deep.
Indian Army and local administration teams rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations despite difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. Four soldiers were found dead at the scene, while 11 others were rescued with injuries and provided first aid before being airlifted to Udhampur for specialised treatment.
Six more soldiers later succumbed to their injuries, officials said. The vehicle was severely damaged in the crash, Indian media reported.
“We have lost 10 soldiers with 11 others injured in the unfortunate accident involving army vehicle,” Additional Deputy Commissioner, Bhaderwah, Sumit Kumar Bhutyal told PTI.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he was “deeply saddened by the tragic road accident in Doda”.
He wrote on X, “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.”
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed grief over the accident.
Chief Minister conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the soldiers who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. He also lauded the swift rescue and evacuation efforts.
Sinha, in a post on X, said he was “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 the outstanding service and supreme sacrifice of our brave soldiers.” He expressed his deepest condolences to the grieving families.
“In this moment of profound sorrow, the entire nation stands united with the bereaved families in solidarity and support. 10 injured soldiers have been airlifted to the hospital,” he said, adding that he had directed senior officials to ensure best possible treatment to the injured.
“Praying for their speedy recovery,” he said.
