At least two passengers were killed and 15 others injured on Wednesday, 21 October after a bus skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir. The accident, which occurred at Gulli Gala at around 8 am, has prompted condolences from the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister, with district authorities mobilised for relief operations.

How the Accident Unfolded

The bus was travelling from Poichound to Ramnagar when the driver lost control of the vehicle, which skidded and fell into a deep gorge at Gulli Gala. Locals at the scene launched a rescue operation immediately, shifting all 17 passengers to a primary health centre in Basantgarh for initial treatment.

After first aid, the injured were transferred to Ramnagar hospital, where a woman and a 6-year-old girl succumbed to their critical injuries. Six of the remaining injured are reported to be in critical condition and have since been moved to Udhampur district hospital for advanced care.

Government Response

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the tragedy and directed district officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the survivors. In a post on X, Sinha wrote: 'Distressed to learn about the loss of lives due to a tragic bus accident in Ramnagar, Udhampur. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. I have directed the District Administration to provide all necessary assistance to the affected families and ensure the best possible treatment to those who have been injured in the accident.'

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed deep sorrow over the accident, extending condolences to the bereaved families and directing authorities to ensure prompt medical care. According to an X post from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the CMO is in constant contact with concerned officials and is closely monitoring the situation.

Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (PMO) and Lok Sabha member from the Kathua-Udhampur constituency, said he had spoken with Deputy Commissioner Udhampur Ananth Dwivedi after learning of the accident. He confirmed that all necessary assistance was being provided and that his office remained in continuous contact with the district administration.

Scale of Casualties and Ongoing Treatment

Of the 17 passengers hospitalised, two have died and six remain critical. The remaining injured are being treated at Ramnagar hospital. Authorities have not yet issued a formal statement on the condition of all individuals as of Wednesday morning. The district administration is continuing relief operations under the direct oversight of the L-G's office.

Road Safety Context

The Udhampur-Ramnagar stretch passes through mountainous terrain with a history of road incidents, particularly in the autumn months when weather conditions can affect road surfaces. This is one of several road accidents reported in Jammu and Kashmir's hilly districts in recent weeks, raising fresh questions about vehicle fitness checks and road maintenance protocols on vulnerable mountain routes.