JAMMU: A tragic accident near Jammu on Saturday evening claimed the life of a Himachal Pradesh-based bus driver and left 17 pilgrims injured when a bus returning from the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine veered off the road and plunged into a 30-foot gorge, officials reported.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his sorrow over the incident and praised the swift response of the rescue teams and officials.
The ill-fated bus, registered as UK-07PA-5640, was en route to Delhi when the accident occurred near Manda, approximately eight kilometers from the Jammu bus stand. Officials stated that the driver lost control while navigating a curve, causing the vehicle to skid off the road and tumble into the gorge.
A rescue operation was promptly launched, and all 17 injured passengers were evacuated and admitted to the Government Medical College Hospital. Their condition was reported to be stable.
Unfortunately, the driver, identified as Rakesh, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His body was recovered after an intense rescue effort lasting over two hours, involving personnel from the police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), traffic police, and fire and emergency services. His remains were later taken to the GMC Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination.
According to officials, the injured passengers hail from Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.
Expressing his condolences, Chief Minister Abdullah took to X, stating, “Deeply saddened by the bus accident at Manda, carrying pilgrims from Katra to Delhi. My heartfelt condolences to the family of the driver who lost his life in this tragic incident. Thankfully, all injured passengers are stable and receiving medical care. Wishing them a swift recovery.”
He further appreciated the rescue teams for their prompt and commendable efforts, assuring that his office remains in touch with the concerned authorities.
