Doda, Jan 22 : Ten Indian Army soldiers lost their lives and eleven others were injured in a road accident on the Bhaderwah-Chamba road in Doda district on Thursday.
According to an official briefing by Deputy Commissioner Doda Harvinder Singh, the accident occurred on the snow-covered stretch of the Bhaderwah Chamba road when an Army vehicle met with a fatal mishap. He said that as per preliminary reports, the presence of snow on the road led to the accident.
“A tragic accident took place on the Bhaderwah Chamba road. A total of 10 jawans have lost their lives. Out of the 11 injured jawans, 10 seriously injured jawans have been airlifted to Command Hospital Udhampur. The bodies of the deceased soldiers are being dispatched to their families. According to the preliminary report, the road accident took place because there was snow on the road,” the Deputy Commissioner said.
Officials said the accident occurred in a mountainous and treacherous stretch of the interstate road, known for sharp turns and difficult terrain, particularly during winter when snowfall makes driving conditions hazardous. Rescue teams, including Army and civil administration personnel, rushed to the spot soon after the accident and carried out evacuation operations under challenging conditions.
The injured soldiers were initially provided emergency medical assistance before being shifted for advanced treatment. Ten of the injured personnel, who were stated to be in serious condition, were airlifted to the Army Command Hospital in Udhampur. The condition of the injured is being closely monitored by medical teams, while officials said all possible medical care is being ensured.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed profound sorrow over the death of ten soldiers. In a message, he said he was deeply saddened by the tragic accident and paid tribute to the bravery and supreme sacrifice of the fallen soldiers. He extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and said the entire nation stands with them in this moment of grief. The Lieutenant Governor also directed senior officials to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured soldiers and prayed for their speedy recovery.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed deep anguish over the incident. He conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the soldiers who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. The Chief Minister said the sacrifice of the soldiers would always be remembered and assured all possible support to the affected families.
Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti said she was deeply saddened to hear about the tragic news from Doda, where an Army vehicle accident claimed the lives of ten brave soldiers and left several others injured. She extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured personnel.
Leaders from across the political spectrum expressed grief and solidarity with the families of the fallen soldiers, describing the incident as a heartbreaking loss for the nation. Messages of condolence poured in from various quarters, highlighting the immense sacrifice made by the Army personnel while serving in difficult and hazardous conditions.
Officials said the Bhaderwah Chamba road, which connects Doda district with parts of Himachal Pradesh, remains particularly vulnerable during winter months due to snowfall, icy surfaces and limited visibility. They said the administration continues to monitor road conditions and advisories are issued to minimise risks, though unforeseen incidents can still occur due to sudden changes in weather.
The bodies of the deceased soldiers are being sent to their respective native places with full military honours, officials said. Arrangements are being made to ensure dignified last rites and support for the families of the fallen soldiers.
Meanwhile, authorities said a detailed investigation will be carried out to examine all aspects of the accident, including road conditions and vehicle movement, to prevent such tragedies in the future. [KNT]