3 CRPF jawans killed, 15 injured after vehicle plunges into gorge in J&K's Udhampur

The vehicle met with an accident during routine movement, though the exact cause of the mishap is yet to be confirmed. (Photo: X)

Three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel died and 15 others were when a vehicle carrying them skidded off the road and rolled down into a nallah in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district on Thursday.

According to PTI, the incident took place around 10:30 am in the Kadwa area when the personnel were returning from an operation at Basant Garh. The vehicle belongs to the 187th Battalion of the force. The vehicle was carrying 23 personnel.

While two personnel died on the spot, 16 others were injured. They were evacuated to a hospital, where one more succumbed to injuries, bringing the toll to three.

Taking to X, Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh said, "Disturbing to receive the news of a road accident involving a CRPF vehicle in the Kandva–Basantgarh area. The vehicle was carrying several brave jawans of the CRPF. I have just now spoken to DC Ms. Saloni Rai, who is personally monitoring the situation and keeping me updated."

J&K LG pays condolences to families of CRPF personnel
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha extended condolences to the families of the CRPF personnel killed in the accident. The LG directed the senior officials to ensure the best treatment for the personnel injured in the accident.

In a post on X, the Office of the Lt Governor wrote, "Saddened by the loss of CRPF personnel due to an accident near Udhampur. We will never forget their exemplary service to the nation. My thoughts are with bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Directed senior officials to ensure the best possible care & assistance."

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also condoled the loss of life, "The news of the martyrdom of CRPF jawans and several others being injured due to our army's vehicle falling into a deep ravine in Udhampur, Jammu-Kashmir is extremely distressing. May God grant peace to the departed souls. My deepest condolences to the grief-stricken families. The nation will always remain indebted to our brave jawans and their families. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured jawans."