NEW DELHI, Jan 4: Four soldiers were killed and two others injured when the army truck they were travelling plunged into a gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Saturday after being skidded off the road.
Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, and the injured soldiers were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.
The Army’s Chinar Corps, in a post on X, said the vehicle fell into the gorge due to inclement weather and poor visibility conditions while the personnel were on duty in Bandipora. The accident occurred near the SK Payen area around 2.30 pm.
“Injured soldiers were promptly evacuated for medical care with assistance from Kashmiri locals, for which we express gratitude towards the citizens in providing immediate succour,” the post stated. “Tragically three bravehearts lost their lives in the unfortunate accident. Indian Army extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” the Army added.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his grief over the loss. “Deeply grieved by the loss of lives of Indian Army personnel due to a tragic road accident in Bandipora. The nation is deeply grateful for their service and commitment. My condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Sinha said in a condolence message.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also took to social media to offer his condolences. “The news of the martyrdom of many of our soldiers due to the accident of an Army van in Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir is very sad. I pay tribute to the martyred soldiers and hope for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have deep condolences for the bereaved family,” Gandhi wrote.
In a similar incident last month, five soldiers died and five others were injured after the truck they were travelling in plunged into a 300-foot gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch.
(Manas Dasgupta)
