Tragedy struck Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur on April 20 when a passenger bus met with a fatal accident, killing at least 14 people and injuring over 30 others. The vehicle, traveling from Ramnagar towards Udhampur, lost control at Kagote Morh and tumbled down a steep slope, according to officials.
In a swift response, top national leaders voiced their sorrow. President Droupadi Murmu took to X to share her anguish: ‘Deeply pained by the bus accident in Udhampur district. My heartfelt condolences to the grieving families; prayers for the injured.’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, equally moved, announced financial relief: Rs 2 lakh for each deceased’s family via PMNRF and Rs 50,000 for the wounded. ‘Heartbreaking to hear of this loss. My deepest sympathies to those affected,’ he posted on the platform.
The outpouring of grief continued with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressing shock at the ‘precious lives lost’ and praying for strength to the families. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha termed it a ‘heart-rending road mishap,’ instructing all emergency services to extend maximum support.
Eyewitness accounts from the scene paint a grim picture. Army personnel training nearby spotted the overturned bus and sprang into action, saving five to six lives and recovering multiple bodies. ADC Udhampur Prem Singh noted the confirmed toll stands at 13-14, with ongoing rescue efforts.
As the region mourns, questions arise about road conditions, driver fatigue, and maintenance standards in such accident-prone zones. This crash adds to a string of vehicular disasters in Jammu and Kashmir, fueling demands for advanced safety protocols, including mandatory fitness checks and improved signage. Families await closure, while the nation reflects on preventing future calamities.
