Jammu: At least 21 persons were killed and 69 injured after a bus, carrying pilgrims fell into a deep gorge in Chungi Morh area of Akhnoor in Jammu district on Thursday afternoon, according to officials.
An official said that thebus was on way from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh to Shiv Khori area of Reasi district when the accident took place.
The bus fell around 200 meters down into a deep gorge, following which a rescue operation was launched and injured persons were evacuated to hospital, he said.
Block Medical Officer Akhnoor, Muhammad Saleem Khan said that 21 were brought dead to hospital and around 69 were injured.
“The critically injured have been referred to GMC Jammu for specialized treatment,” he said.
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the incident stating: "Pained beyond words to learn about the loss of lives in a bus accident in Akhnoor near Jammu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery of the injured.”
Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha also expressed condolences and called the incident as "heart-rending" and said that the administration is providing all possible support.
"The bus accident in Akhnoor, Jammu is heart-rending. I condole the loss of lives and pray to the almighty to give the bereaved families the strength to bear the irreparable loss. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. The administration is providing all possible assistance to the bereaved families and is also extending medical facilities to those who have been injured," he said in a post on X.
(KNO)
