Ten Indian Army soldiers died and others were injured after their vehicle fell into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district, prompting rescue efforts.
Initial reports from officials and rescue teams confirmed that ten soldiers lost their lives in the crash, while others were pulled out injured. (Photo: Social Media)
At least ten Indian Army soldiers were killed, and several others were hurt when their military vehicle skidded off a mountain road and plunged into a deep gorge in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday afternoon. The vehicle, carrying 17 personnel, was journeying toward a high-altitude post when the driver lost control near Khanni Top along the Bhaderwah-Chamba road, causing it to fall into a 200-foot-deep ravine. Rescue teams from the Army and J&K Police immediately launched operations at the site.
Initial reports from officials and rescue teams confirmed that ten soldiers lost their lives in the crash, while others were pulled out injured. Some of the critically wounded were airlifted to Udhampur Military Hospital for specialised care as part of coordinated medical response efforts.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha took to X to express his grief over the loss of the soldiers. He wrote, “Deeply saddened at the loss of lives of 10 of our brave Indian Army soldiers in an unfortunate road accident in Doda. We will always remember the outstanding service and supreme sacrifice of our brave soldiers. My deepest condolences to the grieving families.”
In this moment of profound sorrow, the entire nation stands united with the bereaved families in solidarity and support. 10 Injured soldiers have been airlifted to the hospital. Directed the Senior officials to ensure best possible treatment. Praying for their speedy recovery.
— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) January 22, 2026
He added, “In this moment of profound sorrow, the entire nation stands united with the bereaved families in solidarity and support. 10 Injured soldiers have been airlifted to the hospital. Directed the senior officials to ensure best possible treatment. Praying for their speedy recovery.”
Emergency response teams from both the Army and local police worked together at the accident site to evacuate the wounded and recover the deceased. The challenging terrain and weather conditions made rescue operations difficult. Officials stressed that the cause of the accident is under investigation, with early indications suggesting the driver lost control on the steep, winding road.
This tragic event highlights the regular dangers faced by defence forces while moving through treacherous mountain routes in Jammu and Kashmir. Just days earlier, two army porters died after slipping into a deep gorge near the Line of Control in the Gulmarg sector, underscoring the risks of movement in such rugged areas.
Earlier in 2025, another unfortunate incident occurred in the Ramban district, where three soldiers died after their vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a 700-foot-deep gorge on National Highway 44, reflecting ongoing safety challenges.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the circumstances that led to this deadly accident. Meanwhile, senior military and civic officials are coordinating with families of the deceased and injured to provide support and necessary information. The Army continues to assess the scene and conditions that contributed to the vehicle losing control.
