Vehicle Plunges Off J&K Highway, 10 Dead in Gruesome Accident

Ten Migrant Workers Killed in Tragic Highway Accident on Srinagar-Jammu Highway

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir – March 30, 2024: A pall of grief hangs heavy over Jammu and Kashmir after ten migrant workers lost their lives in a horrific accident on the Srinagar-Jammu highway early Friday morning.

The incident occurred around 1:30 am near Battery Cheshma in the Ramban district, a treacherous stretch notorious for its sharp turns and steep slopes. The ill-fated passenger vehicle, likely travelling from Jammu towards Srinagar, plummeted into a bone-chilling 300-foot gorge.

Heavy Rains Hamper Rescue Efforts

Heavy rain lashed the area at the time of the accident, significantly hampering rescue operations. Despite the challenging conditions, state disaster management personnel and police teams bravely scrambled down the steep gorge to retrieve the bodies.

Identity of Victims Confirmed

The deceased have been identified as migrant workers, their families most likely residing outside of Jammu and Kashmir. Two of the victims have been confirmed to be Balwan Singh from Jammu and Vipin Mukhiya from Bihar. Efforts are underway to identify the remaining passengers.

Lt. Governor Offers Condolences and Support

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed his deep shock and condolences to the bereaved families. He has directed the District Administration and Divisional Commissioner to ensure all necessary assistance is provided to the families of the victims, as mandated by law.

Safety Concerns Raised on the Highway

This tragic incident reignites concerns about safety measures on the Srinagar-Jammu highway, a vital transportation link for the region. The Ramban district, in particular, poses a significant challenge for drivers due to its mountainous terrain. Traffic authorities are likely to face renewed pressure to implement stricter safety protocols and improve road conditions along this crucial highway.

Further Investigation Underway

The cause of the accident is still under investigation. Authorities will be looking into factors such as weather conditions, potential mechanical issues with the vehicle, and driver fatigue.