In a devastating turn of events, a passenger bus journey from Kishtwar to Jammu ended in tragedy, as it veered off the road and plummeted 250 meters down a hill in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir. This catastrophic incident claimed the lives of 38 individuals and left 17 others injured, marking one of the most grievous road accidents in the region’s recent history.
#WATCH | J&K | 36 people died and 19 people injured, including 6 critically injured, in a bus accident in Assar region of Doda. The injured have been shifted to hospital.
Visuals from the accident spot. pic.twitter.com/AwA2LzVfCC
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2023
The Incident
On a seemingly routine journey spanning 200 kilometers – a distance typically covered in five hours – the unexpected occurred. The bus, carrying 55 passengers, tragically veered off its path near Trungal in the Assar area of Doda district. This horrific accident was captured in a distressing video clip, showing motionless bodies strewn across the street, a silent testament to the magnitude of the calamity.
J-K: 36 passengers dead, 6 in critical condition as bus plunges into gorge in Doda
Read @ANI | https://t.co/e2gh7EsAZi #jammukashmir #Doda #BusAccident pic.twitter.com/sYmv8F4kS0
— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) November 15, 2023
Rescue Operations
Under the supervision of Doda’s senior superintendent of police, Abdul Qayoom, a swift response was initiated. Local residents, showcasing remarkable solidarity and courage, were among the first to respond. Out of the wreckage, 17 survivors were rescued and rushed to nearby medical facilities, some battling severe injuries.
Statements and Condolences
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. Emphasizing his empathy, he remarked, “I am extremely pained by the loss of lives in the bus accident.” Sinha’s commitment to supporting the affected was evident as he directed the Divisional Commissioner and District Administration to extend all necessary assistance.
Doda bus accident | J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha tweets, “Extremely pained by the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Assar, Doda. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families & wishing for a speedy recovery of those injured in the accident. Directed Div Com &… pic.twitter.com/Bi72nNzaaw
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2023
#UPDATE | Death toll in Doda bus accident rises to 36 with 19 injured. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/mh6GMtZbu5
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2023
#WATCH | On Doda bus accident, Union Minister Jitendra Singh says, ” Absolutely shocking…the bus was on the way to Jammu…the bus fell down into a nearly 300 feet deep gorge…immediately all of us got in touch with the administration, deputy collector over there…36 people… pic.twitter.com/vqoyvzQ8LP
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2023
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The Aftermath
As the community reels from this tragedy, questions arise about road safety and the measures needed to prevent such incidents in the future. The incident has highlighted the critical importance of stringent safety protocols and the urgent need for improved infrastructure to ensure the safety of passengers.
This tragic incident is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the paramount importance of road safety measures. As the region mourns, the collective efforts of the community, authorities, and leaders are focused on providing solace and support to the bereaved families and ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but united in grief and purpose, the community stands resilient in the face of adversity.
