10 Army Soldiers Killed as Military Vehicle Falls Into Gorge in J&K’s Doda

At least ten Indian Army soldiers lost their lives and several others were injured after a military vehicle skidded off a mountainous road and fell into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district.

The tragic incident occurred during a routine movement in the high-altitude region, once again highlighting the dangers faced by troops deployed in difficult terrain.

Lieutenant Governor Confirms Deaths, Offers Condolences

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha confirmed the loss of lives and expressed grief over the incident. Taking to X, he paid tribute to the fallen soldiers and extended condolences to their families.

"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," Sinha said.

He also shared an update on the condition of the injured soldiers and the steps taken by the administration.

"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," he added.

How the Accident Took Place

According to officials, the accident occurred at Khanni Top along the Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate road. The bullet-proof Army vehicle was carrying 17 personnel and was en route to a high-altitude post when the driver reportedly lost control, causing the vehicle to plunge nearly 200 feet into a gorge.

A joint rescue operation involving the Army and local police was launched immediately. Four soldiers were found dead at the spot, while nine others were rescued with injuries. Among the injured, three soldiers were in critical condition and were airlifted to the Udhampur military hospital for specialised medical care.

Recent Similar Incidents in the Region

The tragedy comes just days after two Army porters slipped to their deaths near the Line of Control in the Gulmarg sector. The porters were travelling towards Anita Post when they fell into a deep gorge on January 8. A search and rescue operation was launched, and their bodies were recovered two days later.

The deceased porters were identified as Layaqat Ahmad Deedard, 27, and Ishfaq Ahmad Khatana, 33, both residents of Chandoosa in Baramulla.

Past Accidents Highlight Ongoing Risks

Such incidents are not uncommon in the region's challenging terrain. In May last year, three Army personnel were killed when their vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a 700-foot-deep gorge in Ramban district. That accident occurred near Battery Chashma on National Highway 44 as an Army convoy was travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

The soldiers who lost their lives in that incident were identified as Sepoys Amit Kumar, Sujeet Kumar and Man Bahadur. Their bodies were later recovered from the gorge by rescue teams.

These repeated accidents underscore the extreme conditions under which security forces operate in Jammu and Kashmir, where narrow roads, harsh weather and steep valleys pose constant risks during routine movements.