Jammu and Kashmir: 38 killed in Doda bus mishap; PM announces ex-gratia
Doda (Jammu and Kashmir): Tragedy struck as a bus carrying 55 passengers skidded off the road and plunged 200 metre down a steep slope near Trungal in the Assar area of Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday, leaving 38 dead and many injured.
The local authorities, including police and rescue teams, swiftly responded to the scene to initiate rescue operations and evaluate the extent of the tragedy. Initially, reports from the Police Control Room in Doda indicated a death toll of around 20, which tragically rose as the situation unfolded.
"A passenger bus, en route from Kishtwar to Jammu, lost control and fell 200 meters off the road near Trungal in the Assar area of Doda district. Ten passengers have been confirmed dead, and the toll is expected to rise," a police officer earlier mentioned from the police control room in Doda.
The injured have been taken to nearby healthcare facilities for urgent treatment, as confirmed by officials.
Later updates from SSP Doda Abdul Qayoom confirmed the tragic loss of 38 lives in the devastating accident.
Expressing deep sorrow, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha conveyed heartfelt condolences to the grieving families affected by the incident. "Incredibly saddened by the lives lost in the dreadful bus accident in Assar, Doda. My heartfelt sympathies to the families facing this loss, and I hope for the swift recovery of the injured. Directed the Divisional Commissioner and District Administration to extend full support to those affected," said LG Sinha.
"The bus accident in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, is distressing. My condolences to the families who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 would be given to the injured, said PM Narendra Modi.
- ANI
