Three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and 15 others injured, some of them critically, when a vehicle carrying them skidded off the road and rolled down into a nallah in Udhampur district on Thursday.
The incident took place around 10:30 am in the Kadwa area when the CRPF personnel were returning from an operation from Basant Garh.
The vehicle, which belonged to CRPF’s 187 battalion, was carrying 23 personnel.
While two CRPF jawans died on the spot, 16 others were injured, officials said.
The injured were evacuated to a hospital, where one more succumbed to injuries, taking the toll to three.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh posts on X, “Disturbing to receive the news of a road accident involving a CRPF vehicle in the Kandva–Basantgarh area. The vehicle was carrying several brave jawans of the CRPF. I have just now spoken to DC Ms. Saloni Rai, who is personally monitoring the situation and keeping me updated. Rescue measures have been initiated immediately. Locals have voluntarily come forward to assist. All possible help being ensured”.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his deep grief over the loss of lives of CRPF personnel due to tragic accident in Basantgarh area of Udhampur.
“Saddened by loss of CRPF personnel due to an accident near Udhampur. 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 and assistance,” Sinha said in a post on X.