3 CRPF jawans killed, 15 injured after vehicle falls into gorge in J&K's Udhampur

A vehicle carrying Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel skidded off the road and rolled down into a gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district on Thursday (August 7). Three jawans were killed and 15 injured in the accident, officials said.

Also read: Slain Pahalgam terrorists from Pakistan; govt IDs, biometric data confirm

The accident occurred at around 10:30 am in the Kadwa area when the personnel were returning in a bunker vehicle from an operation from Basant Garh.

Vehicle carrying 23 personnel

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.

Rescue measures

Singh also condoled the loss of lives and noted that "The vehicle was carrying several brave jawans of the CRPF".

He said he has spoken to Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai, who is personally monitoring the situation.

"Rescue measures have been initiated immediately. Locals have voluntarily come forward to assist. All possible help being ensured", he added.