Jammu, Nov 16 – In a tragic incident in Assar area of Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir, a bus carrying 56 passengers from Kishtwar to Jammu met with an accident, plunging into a 300-feet deep gorge. At least 39 passengers lost their lives, and 17 others sustained injuries.
The incident occurred when the bus (JK02CN6555) veered off the Batote-Kishtwar national highway. Rescue operations were promptly initiated by SDRF, Army, Police, and locals. Unfortunately, 37 people were declared dead on arrival at Government Medical College (GMC) Doda, while two succumbed to injuries after being airlifted to GMC Jammu. The injured are receiving treatment at different hospitals.
The Deputy Commissioner of Doda, Harvinder Singh, mentioned that the bus driver also lost his life in the tragic incident. A comprehensive inquiry has been initiated into the case. The injured include 11 passengers with breathing issues who were referred to Saifai Medical University.
Condolences poured in from President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and other political leaders. An ex gratia amount of Rs 2 lakh each will be provided to the next of kin of the deceased, and Rs 50,000 each to the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).
The tragic incident follows another fire accident involving three coaches of Darbhanga Express in Etawah district on the same day, injuring eight passengers.
