Tragic Mendhar Accident: Soldier Among 4 Dead, 43 Injured as Bus Falls Into Gorge
Srinagar 07 May 2025: A devastating road accident in Mendhar, Poonch district, has claimed the lives of four people, including a soldier on leave, and left 43 others injured. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, raising concerns about road safety, infrastructure, and emergency response measures.
The accident occurred when a private bus traveling from Ghani to Mendhar lost control and plunged into a 100-foot-deep gorge along the roadside. The crash took place around 9:20 AM, leading to an immediate rescue operation by locals, police, army, and CRPF personnel.
What Happened?
According to eyewitnesses, the bus was navigating a steep and narrow stretch of road when the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and tumble into the gorge. The impact was severe, with passengers thrown from their seats and debris scattered across the crash site.
Possible Causes of the Accident
- Poor Road Conditions: The stretch of road where the accident occurred is known for its sharp turns and lack of proper barriers.
- Overcrowding: Reports suggest the bus was carrying more passengers than its capacity, which may have contributed to instability.
- Driver Fatigue or Error: Authorities are investigating whether the driver was exhausted or distracted, leading to the loss of control.
- Mechanical Failure: A technical issue, such as brake failure, could have played a role in the accident.
Victims Identified
Officials have identified the deceased as:
- Mohammad Majeed (45) – A soldier posted with the Assam Rifles, who was on leave.
- Shakeela Begum (55) – Resident of Ghani village.
- Mohammad Haneef (50) – Resident of Ghani village.
- Noor Hussain (60) – Resident of Kasblari village.
Rescue & Medical Response
The accident prompted a massive rescue operation, with locals, police, army, and CRPF personnel working together to pull survivors from the wreckage.
Key Rescue Efforts:
- Immediate Response: Locals rushed to the scene, helping injured passengers before authorities arrived.
- Medical Assistance: The injured were taken to Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, where doctors say the condition of seven passengers is critical.
- Advanced Treatment: Five critically injured individuals were later referred to GMC Jammu for specialized care.
Government Response & Condolences
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed grief over the tragedy, offering condolences and promising full support to the victims.
Statements from Officials:
- LG Manoj Sinha: “Pained by the loss of lives due to this tragic accident. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured”.
- Omar Abdullah: “Directions have been issued to ensure the best possible medical care and full support to those affected”.
Road Safety Concerns & Preventive Measures
This accident has reignited discussions on road safety in Jammu and Kashmir, where mountainous terrain and poor infrastructure contribute to frequent mishaps.
Key Areas for Improvement:
- Better Road Maintenance: Authorities must repair damaged roads and install safety barriers in high-risk areas.
- Stricter Traffic Regulations: Enforcing speed limits and vehicle capacity rules can help prevent accidents.
- Driver Training Programs: Educating drivers on safe navigation in hilly regions is crucial.
- Emergency Response Enhancements: Faster ambulance deployment and medical aid can save lives in future accidents.
Bottom-Line
The Mendhar accident is a tragic reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety measures. As authorities investigate the causes, the focus must shift toward preventing future tragedies through better infrastructure, stricter regulations, and enhanced emergency response systems.
