NVI Correspondent
Jammu, Dec 24 (NVI): At least 5 Indian Army personnel were killed and 5 others injured as their vehicle plunged into a deep gorge in Poonch district of Jammu, on a road close to the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan-occupied J&K.
The mishap occurred at around 5.20 PM in Balnoi area of Mendhar Tehsil when the 2.5 Ton vehicle, part of a 6-vehicle convoy, went off the road and fell into a nallah, officials said.
The convoy was moving on the ‘Operational Track’, which is on this side of the LoC fence, they said.
The driver possibly lost control of the vehicle, which was carrying 10 soldiers, at a turn of the road, the officials said.
However, an investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact cause of the mishap.
The Army strongly ruled out any terror attack angle, saying a military post is just 130 meters from the site of the accident and a backup vehicle was barely 40 meters away.
The deceased and the injured personnel were immediately evacuated to the Field Hospital in Poonch, they said.
“All ranks of 16 Corps extend their deepest condolences on the tragic loss of five brave soldiers in a vehicle accident during operational duty in the Poonch sector,” the Army’s 16 Corps posted on X.
It said rescue operations were ongoing and the injured personnel are receiving medical care.
The accident highlights the immense challenges faced by soldiers operating in remote and treacherous border areas.
The roads in these areas are often narrow, steep, and prone to accidents, particularly during the harsh winter months when conditions deteriorate further.
Senior Army officials have expressed their grief and assured support to the families of the deceased.
“The loss of these brave soldiers is a profound tragedy for the nation. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and we stand with their families in this hour of grief,” an official stated.
An inquiry has been ordered to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Preliminary reports suggest that the vehicle may have skidded off the road due to poor visibility and the challenging terrain, but the exact cause will be determined after further investigation (News Vibes of India)
