Doda Accident: 10 Army Personnel Die, 11 Injured After Vehicle Skids Off Road

Jammu & Kashmir witnessed a tragic accident on Thursday in Doda district, where an Indian Army vehicle plunged into a deep gorge, killing 10 soldiers and leaving 11 others seriously injured . The mishap occurred on the Bhaderwah–Chamba interstate road near Khanni Top , a high-altitude area located around 9,000 feet above sea level . Officials said the Army’s armoured vehicle ( Casspir ) was heading towards a forward post when the driver reportedly lost control on the steep, narrow road, causing the vehicle to fall nearly 200 feet into the valley and get completely damaged.

Rescue operations were launched immediately after the incident, with joint teams from the Army and Police rushing to the spot. According to authorities, four soldiers died on the spot , while 11 injured personnel were pulled out of the gorge in critical condition. The injured were initially shifted to nearby medical facilities, but six soldiers later succumbed to their injuries during treatment , taking the death toll to 10. Of the injured, 10 soldiers were airlifted to the Command Hospital in Udhampur for specialised care, while one remains under observation at the Bhaderwah Sub-District Hospital . Bhaderwah Additional Deputy Commissioner Sumit Kumar Bhutyal confirmed the loss of lives and the number of injured in the unfortunate incident.

The tragedy triggered strong reactions from national and state leaders. Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep anguish and said the country would always remember the soldiers’ exceptional service and supreme sacrifice. He also stated that authorities were directed to ensure the injured receive the best medical care. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, wished the injured a speedy recovery, and appreciated the swift rescue efforts. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed shock and grief over the incident, extending sympathy to the families of the deceased and confirming that all necessary directions had been issued to provide the injured soldiers with the best possible treatment.