At least 21 people lost their lives and 69 others were injured when a bus carrying pilgrims plunged into a deep gorge in the Chungi Morh area of Akhnoor on Thursday afternoon.
According to officials, the bus was travelling from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh to the Shiv Khori area of Reasi district when the accident occurred. The bus fell approximately 200 meters into a deep gorge, prompting a swift rescue operation. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital.
Hospital officials said that 21 individuals were declared dead upon arrival at the hospital, and around 69 others sustained injuries. "The critically injured have been referred to GMC Jammu for specialised treatment," an official said.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her sorrow over the tragic event. "Pained beyond words to learn about the loss of lives in a bus accident in Akhnoor near Jammu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery of the injured," she wrote in a post on X.
The bus accident in Akhnoor, Jammu is heart-rending. I condole the loss of lives and pray to the almighty to give the bereaved families the strength to bear the irreparable loss. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) May 30, 2024
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described the incident as "heart-rending" and assured that the administration is providing all necessary support. "The bus accident in Akhnoor, Jammu is heart-rending. I condole the loss of lives and pray to the almighty to give the bereaved families the strength to bear the irreparable loss. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. The administration is providing all possible assistance to the bereaved families and is also extending medical facilities to those who have been injured," he said in a post on X.
Meanwhile, an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh was announced to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the tragic bus accident.
The community is deeply affected by this tragic incident, and efforts are underway to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.
