||Black and White Digital News||

||Parvinder Singh July 14,2024 ||

Jammu : A devastating road accident has left the picturesque hills of Doda in mourning. A private mini bus, packed with passengers, skidded off the road and tumbled into a 200-feet-deep gorge, claiming two lives and injuring 25 others on Saturday.

The harrowing incident occurred near Bhatyas around 10.25 am as the bus journeyed from Bhalessa to Thathri. The serene landscape of the Doda district turned into a scene of chaos and despair as the bus careened off the road, sending shockwaves through the region.

Rescue operations were launched immediately after the accident. First responders discovered a grim scene: a woman lay lifeless at the crash site, her life snuffed out instantly by the tragic fall. Another woman, gravely injured, succumbed to her injuries later at a hospital, despite the best efforts of medical personnel.

Among the 25 injured, nine were reported to be in critical condition and are receiving urgent care at the Government Medical College in Doda. The seriousness of their injuries has prompted an outpouring of support and assistance from local authorities and the community.

Deputy Commissioner of Doda, Harvinder Singh, swiftly took charge of the situation. Harvinder Singh stated, “After learning about the tragic road accident in which a mini bus rolled down a deep gorge at Thathri Gandoh leading to loss of two lives and injuries to 25. Rescue teams are on the job. Six of the critically injured have been shifted to GMC Doda. I’m in constant touch. All possible assistance is being provided,” emphasizing the urgency and dedication of the ongoing rescue efforts.

As rescue teams worked tirelessly to extricate survivors from the wreckage, the gravity of the situation became evident. The local community rallied, offering help and solace to the affected families. The sight of the mangled bus at the bottom of the gorge stood as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of such tragic events.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation about road safety in the hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir. The winding roads, while picturesque, pose significant challenges and risks to drivers and passengers alike. This tragedy underscores the need for improved safety measures and stricter regulations to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents in the future.

In the wake of the accident, the people of Doda are left grappling with grief and uncertainty. The loss of two lives, alongside the injuries sustained by many others, has cast a pall over the community. Yet, amid the sorrow, the resilience and solidarity of the people shine through, offering a glimmer of hope in these trying times.

As the sun sets over the hills of Doda, the community mourns, remembers, and hopes for a future where such tragedies are averted through collective vigilance and care.