Udhampur, May 11: At least 23 passengers died and 42 injured, six of them critically when a bus they were travelling in rolled down into a deep gorge in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday.
The passenger bus (JK02A-2858), which was on its way to Udhampur from Latti belt, skidded off the road and rolled down into the gorge in Maroti belt in the district, officials said. Reports said that the driver lost control over the vehicle as a resulted it rolled down deep into the gorge. “21 people died on spot while two died at Chenani hospital,†a police official told.
He said that the more than 60 persons were present in the fateful bus when the accident occurred. “The total number of casualties are 23 while 42 injured passengers are being treated in Chnani, Udhampur and Jammu hospitals. The toll may increase as six persons were critical who have been airlifted to Jammu Medical College. 18 injured passengers were shifted to Udhampur hospital while 16 persons are treated at Chenani hospital,†the police official said.
Soon after the accident, police, CRPF, Army, locals and officials from civil administration rushed to spot and started rescue operation. SP, Udhampur, Muhammad Suleman Choudhary told that the number of causalities is expected to increase.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed, PDP president and member parliament Mehbooba Mufti, MoS, PMO Dr Jitendra Singh Raina, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and others have expressed grief over the tragic accident.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi according to an official press release expressed grief over the accident and issued instructions to provide necessary help was required to the victims. He also conveyed his condolence to the families of the deceased. “Disturbing news from J&K. Bus accident in Udhampur has saddened me. My thoughts are with families of the deceased. Prayers with the injured,†Modi tweeted.
Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed also expressed deep shock and grief over the death of 23 persons in thistragic bus accident.
In his condolence message, Mufti Sayeed conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls.
While wishing speedy recovery of passengers injured in the accident, the Chief Minister directed Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, to ensure that best possible medical treatment is extended to them. (CNS)
