Army Airlifts injured Jawans; Dr Jitendra oversees Rescue efforts
Udhampur, Aug 07: In a tragic road accident on Thursday morning, three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost their lives and fifteen others were injured after a vehicle carrying them skidded off a mountain road and rolled into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district.
The mishap occurred around 10:30 am in the rugged Kadwa area near Basantgarh when the CRPF vehicle, belonging to the 187 Battalion, was returning from an operational assignment. The vehicle was carrying a total of 23 personnel. Two personnel died at the scene, while one more succumbed to injuries after being shifted to the hospital, raising the death toll to three.
Officials confirmed that rescue operations were launched immediately, with local residents assisting in the efforts. Sixteen injured personnel were evacuated from the accident site, five of whom are reported to be in critical condition. They have been transferred to medical facilities for advanced care.
In view of the seriousness of the situation, Army helicopters were deployed to airlift the critically injured after a request from the Deputy Commissioner of Udhampur. A coordinated response was mounted swiftly, involving the Army, district administration, and local volunteers.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed grief over the loss of lives, and directed officials to ensure best possible care and assistance to the injured personnel.
The vehicle, which belongs to the 187 battalion of the force, was carrying 23 personnel. While two personnel died on the spot, 16 others were injured. They were evacuated to a hospital, where one more succumbed to injuries, taking the toll to three. Sinha said he was saddened by the death of the CRPF personnel.
“We will never forget their exemplary service to the nation. My thoughts are with bereaved families. Praying for speedy recovery of injured. Directed senior officials to ensure best possible care & assistance”, the LG said on X.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed deep concern over the incident through a social media post. He noted that he had spoken to Deputy Commissioner Ms. Saloni Rai, who is closely monitoring the developments. He assured that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure proper medical assistance and support.
The tragic accident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of forces navigating challenging terrain in remote operational zones. As investigations continue, the focus remains on providing urgent medical care to the injured and extending support to the families of the deceased.
