What Happened to the Lt Colonel and Army Jawan in Ladakh?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a heartbreaking incident in Ladakh, a Lt Colonel and an Army jawan died after their vehicle was struck by a rolling stone. This accident also left three other Army officers injured. The treacherous terrain of Ladakh can pose challenges, and officials are addressing safety concerns with new tunnel construction.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic loss of Army personnel in an accident.
- Rolling stones can pose unexpected dangers in mountainous regions.
- Injured individuals are receiving medical attention.
- Infrastructure improvements underway to enhance safety.
- Driving in Ladakh requires caution due to challenging conditions.
Leh, July 30 (NationPress) Tragically, a Lt Colonel and an Army jawan lost their lives, while three other Army officers sustained injuries on Wednesday when their vehicle was struck by a rolling stone in the Leh district of Ladakh UT.
An official reported, "The Army convoy was transitioning from Durbuk to Chongtash at approximately 11:30 a.m. when a boulder impacted their vehicle. This incident resulted in the deaths of one Lt Colonel and an Army jawan, and injuries to two major officers and a captain."
The injured personnel have been transported to the Army hospital in Leh for medical care.
Officials identified the deceased as Lt Colonel Bhanu Pratap Singh and Lance Dafadar Daljeet Singh. The injured officers have been named as Major Mayank Shubham, Major Amit Dixit, and Captain Gaurav.
Despite being generally regarded as a safe driving area, the rugged mountainous terrain of Ladakh can present significant challenges for drivers due to its high altitude and rough geography.
Such unexpected accidents, like a stone striking a passing vehicle, can only be characterized as a tragic misfortune.
Although the Ladakh region typically experiences limited precipitation, making it less prone to rolling stones, landslides, or mudslides, flash floods have been reported in certain areas due to cloudbursts.
The segment from Baltal to Drass is deemed the most perilous stretch of the Srinagar-Leh highway, particularly as it traverses the Zojila Pass.
This route remains closed for over four months annually due to significant snowfall on Zojila Pass and Matayan on the Drass side.
To alleviate this challenge, a tunnel is currently under construction beneath Zojila Pass, which will circumvent the weather-sensitive area.
Once operational, this tunnel will transform the Srinagar-Leh highway into an all-weather route.
Point of View
This tragic event underscores the inherent risks faced by military personnel in challenging terrains like Ladakh. The ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and safety protocols are critical in ensuring the well-being of those who serve the nation. Our thoughts remain with the families affected during this difficult time.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the accident in Ladakh?
The accident was caused by a rolling stone that struck the Army vehicle while it was part of a convoy.
Who were the victims of the accident?
The victims included Lt Colonel Bhanu Pratap Singh and Lance Dafadar Daljeet Singh, while three officers were injured.
What measures are being taken to improve safety in Ladakh?
A tunnel is currently under construction under Zojila Pass to enhance safety and make the Srinagar-Leh highway an all-weather route.
Is the Srinagar-Leh highway often closed?
Yes, the highway is typically closed for more than four months each year due to heavy snowfall.
What makes driving in Ladakh dangerous?
The high altitude and rugged terrain can pose significant challenges, making driving conditions unpredictable.
