Tragic Bus Accident in Udhampur Claims Lives of 15
Devastating Incident on Ramnagar-Udhampur Highway
A heartbreaking incident has emerged from Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir. On Monday, a passenger bus met with a tragic accident near the village of Kagote on the Ramnagar-Udhampur highway, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals. The bus was en route to Udhampur from a remote village when the fatal mishap occurred. Authorities have expressed concerns that the death toll may rise, as several passengers remain trapped under the debris, and rescue operations are ongoing.
In addition to the fatalities, numerous others sustained injuries and have been admitted to nearby hospitals. Rescue teams have promptly arrived at the scene to assist in the efforts.
Details of the Accident
Preliminary reports from local residents indicate that the bus driver lost control, causing the vehicle to skid off the road and overturn. Witnesses noted that the bus was traveling at a high speed, which likely contributed to the accident.
Senior officials have reached the site to oversee the rescue operations, and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) has instructed that the injured receive immediate medical attention. Teams from the Government Medical College (GMC) in Udhampur have also been put on alert.
Government Response
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has communicated with Udhampur's District Commissioner, Minga Sherpa, to discuss the incident and express his condolences. Singh, who serves as the Lok Sabha MP for Udhampur, stated that he is in constant contact with local officials to monitor the situation.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Singh remarked, "The rescue operation has commenced immediately. There is a significant risk of casualties. Every possible assistance is being provided, and arrangements are being made to airlift critically injured individuals to hospitals."
Similar Incident in Rajouri
This tragic event occurred just a day after a similar accident in Rajouri district, where a passenger vehicle skidded off the road and overturned in a field, injuring at least 18 people. According to officials, this incident took place on the Darhal-Rajouri road when the driver lost control of the tempo traveler.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, initiating rescue operations. Among the 18 injured, four were reported to be in serious condition and were later admitted to GMC hospital in Rajouri.
Official Statements
Just now spoke to DC Udhampur, Sh Minga Sherpa after learning about a tragic road accident, less than an hour ago, at village Kanote, involving a public transport bus on way from Ramnagar to Udhampur .
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) April 20, 2026
The rescue operation has been immediately undertaken. Heavy casualties…