J&K: At least 36 people were reportedly killed and several others were injured after a bus carrying passengers plunged into a gorge on the Chenab river on Wednesday. The tragic accident took place in Jammu's Doda. Senior police officials rushed to the spot immediately and are currently investigating the cause of the accident.
The mishap took place as the bus carrying 55 passengers and on its way from Kishtwar to Jammu veered off the road and rolled down the steep slope near Trungal in the Assar area on the highway.
Disturbing visuals of the crash have surfaced on the internet. Videos showing bodies of passengers lying on the road show the intensity of the deadly crash.
Trigger Warning: Visuals can be disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.
PMO Declares ₹2 L Ex-Gratia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the tragic accident. Calling the tragedy as distressing, PM Modi declared a compensation of Rs 2 lakh from the PM National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of everyone who lost their life, and Rs 50,000 for those injured.
Lt. Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha also expressed grief over the tragic accident. "Extremely pained by the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Assar, Doda. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families & wishing for a speedy recovery of those injured in the accident. Directed Div Com & Dist Admin to provide all necessary assistance to affected persons," said the LG's office in a post.