Udhampur, April 20: A tragic road accident in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district claimed at least 19 lives on Monday, while several others were left injured after a passenger bus plunged into a deep gorge.
According to officials, the accident took place near Kagort village in the Ramnagar area when the bus, coming from a remote locality, lost control while negotiating a sharp curve on a hilly stretch and rolled down the slope. The impact proved devastating, leading to heavy casualties.
Rescue teams, along with police and emergency services, swiftly reached the spot and launched an operation to evacuate the victims. The injured were immediately shifted to nearby medical facilities, where some are reported to be in serious condition.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a quick recovery to the injured. He also announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described the accident as heartbreaking and assured that all necessary support is being provided to the affected families. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also conveyed his condolences and reiterated the government’s commitment to assist the victims during this difficult time.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that he is in constant contact with the district administration, adding that immediate rescue efforts were undertaken and arrangements are being made to ensure proper medical care, including advanced treatment for critically injured passengers.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as relief and rescue operations remain under way.
Report: Mansoor Qadir, J&K.
