• Source:JND
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Udhampur: At least 21 people were killed and 29 others were injured after a passenger bus rolled down a hilly road in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district on Monday, officials said. The accident took place in Kaghot (Kanote) village in Ramnagar area of Udhampur district when a public transport bus travelling from Ramnagar to Udhampur overturned, triggering panic in the region.

According to news agency PTI, the bus lost control while negotiating a blind curve near Kagort village around 10 am and plunged down the slope.

Death toll could increase

Preliminary reports suggest that the toll could rise, although officials have confirmed at least 21 fatalities so far. Reports also stated significant loss of life and property, as rescue operations were immediately launched after the incident was reported, according to Jagran.com.

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A major rescue operation is currently underway at the site. Several injured passengers have been shifted to hospital, where their condition is said to be critical.

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The bus was on way to Udhampur from a remote village when the accident took place, the officials said.

A total of 15 bodies were recovered from the wreckage of the vehicle, while 20 injured were evacuated to hospital and condition of many of them was stated to be "serious", the officials said.

Critically injured to be airlifted: Udhampur DC

Union Minister Jitendra Singh spoke to Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, Minga Sherpa following the accident and said arrangements are being made to airlift the seriously injured victims. "Just now spoke to DC Udhampur, 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.

"The rescue operation has been immediately undertaken. Heavy casualties are expected. All possible assistance is being provided. The injured will be shifted for medical aid. Arrangements being made to airlift the seriously injured," the minister said in a post on X. Singh said he is in constant touch with the local administration as well as the BJP local workers team involved in the rescue operation.

 PM Modi Announces Rs 5 Lakh Ex Gratia  

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in the accident.

In a post on PM Modi wrote, "Pained to hear about the loss of lives due to a bus accident in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.

He also announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the accident.

J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured all possible assistance to the families of the deceased and those injured.

They also directed authorities concerned to provide immediate relief and necessary support to those affected.

(With inputs from agency)


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