Jammu, April 20 (NationPress) A tragic incident occurred in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district on Monday, resulting in the loss of at least 14 lives and leaving 33 individuals injured following a serious bus accident.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner of Udhampur, Prem Singh, reported that the accident transpired while the bus was transporting passengers from Ramnagar to Udhampur town.

Some of the injured have been taken to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital in Udhampur, while others are receiving treatment in Ramnagar.

“Our immediate priority is to rescue the injured and ensure they receive all necessary medical assistance,” stated the officer.

The cause of the accident is under investigation, with officials noting that the bus had overturned. Further details are awaited.

Earlier today, Union Minister of State (MoS) PMO and Lok Sabha representative for the Kathua-Udhampur constituency, Dr. Jitendra Singh, shared on X, “I just spoke with DC Udhampur, Sh Minga Sherpa, regarding a tragic road accident involving a public transport bus that occurred less than an hour ago in village Kanote, while it was en route from Ramnagar to Udhampur.”

He confirmed that rescue operations are underway, stating, “Heavy casualties are anticipated. All possible support is being provided, and the seriously injured will be airlifted for medical treatment.”

Dr. Singh mentioned, “I am in continuous communication with the local administration and our local team led by Sh Rajinder Sharma.”

Jammu and Kashmir's Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, expressed his sorrow, stating, “The tragic road accident in Udhampur is heartbreaking. I extend my deepest condolences to the families affected. May they find strength during this difficult time. I am praying for the swift recovery of the injured. I have instructed the district administration, Police, SDRF, and Health Department to provide every possible assistance to those impacted.”

The Chief Minister's office, represented by Omar Abdullah, expressed profound sadness over the incident, stating, “The Chief Minister conveys his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured. He assured that the government stands firmly with the victims and their families during this trying time, ensuring all necessary support is rendered.”

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also expressed her sorrow, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the Udhampur-Ramnagar bus tragedy that has claimed twelve lives. My condolences to the families affected, and I pray for the quick recovery of those injured.”

Factors such as overloading, excessive speed, reckless driving, and poor road conditions are commonly identified as primary causes of accidents in the hilly regions of Doda, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban, Reasi, Kishtwar, and Udhampur districts.

To combat these issues, the traffic department has deployed special teams in these mountainous areas to monitor overloading, speeding, reckless driving, and road rage to prevent further accidents and protect precious lives.