SRINAGAR: In a heart-wrenching incident on Wednesday morning, a bus tragedy unfolded in the Assar area of Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district, claiming the lives of at least 30 individuals and leaving several others injured. The ill-fated bus, bearing registration number JK02CN-6555, was reportedly carrying around 40 passengers when it skidded off the road near Trungal-Assar on the Batote-Kishtwar national highway. The bus plummeted 300 feet downhill into a deep gorge.
The rescue operation, initiated promptly by authorities, is underway to retrieve bodies and provide aid to the injured. The treacherous terrain and the remote location have posed significant challenges for the rescue teams.
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, expressed his deep condolences to the grieving families affected by this tragic incident. In a statement, he conveyed his profound sorrow, saying, "Extremely pained by the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident in Assar, Doda. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families & wishing for a speedy recovery of those injured in the accident. Directed Div Com & Dist Admin to provide all necessary assistance to affected persons."
The region has been grappling with the aftermath of a recent road accident, marking this as the second tragic incident in Doda district within a week. The recurrence of such accidents underscores the need for enhanced safety measures and vigilant road management in the area.
As the rescue operation continues, authorities are focusing on providing support to the affected families and ensuring the well-being of those injured. The incident has prompted a broader discussion on the safety standards of the region's road infrastructure, urging a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the accident.
The tragic bus accident serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by travelers on challenging terrains and emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to prevent such mishaps. The community, along with local and regional authorities, is united in grief, extending thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families during this difficult time.
In the wake of this devastating event, there is an urgent call for a comprehensive review of road safety protocols and infrastructure in the region to prevent further tragedies and ensure the well-being of commuters traversing these perilous routes.
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