Four died, including CRPF Jawan, in deadly Udhampur highway crash

A devastating road accident on Tuesday morning claimed the lives of four people, including a CRPF jawan, and left several others injured on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway in Udhampur district.

The incident occurred around 11 a.m. near the Jhakhani-Chenani stretch when a bus traveling from Doda to Jammu lost control. The vehicle first collided with a motorcycle and then struck a stationary load-carrier vehicle, which was being repaired roadside by a mechanic. Preliminary reports suggest the bus driver swerved to avoid the motorcycle, leading to the fatal collision.

Among the deceased was a CRPF jawan from the 52 Battalion, posted in Kishtwar, who was reportedly returning home on leave. Three civilians also died on the spot: Ramesh Kumar (48), a mechanic from Chenani, Sanjay Singh (42), the driver of the load carrier from Udhampur town, and Amit Mehra (27), the rider of the motorcycle from Ramnagar.

Two passengers from the bus were ejected through an emergency window during the crash and succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital. Multiple other passengers sustained injuries and are receiving medical care, with some reported in critical condition.

The accident caused significant traffic disruption on the busy highway for several hours while rescue teams and police cleared debris and managed the flow of vehicles. Authorities urged commuters to exercise caution and avoid the area until normal traffic was restored.

The administration expressed condolences to the families of the deceased. Officials confirmed that ex-gratia compensation will be provided to the victims’ families, and financial support will be offered to those undergoing treatment for injuries.

District authorities have launched a formal investigation into the crash. Officials stressed the importance of stricter enforcement of speed limits, regular vehicle inspections, and better roadside safety measures , including signage and emergency assistance points, to prevent similar incidents on the heavily trafficked route.