In a tragic incident on November 15, 2023, in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir, India, a passenger bus accident resulted in a considerable loss of life and multiple injuries. Authorities reported that at least 39 individuals perished and 17 others were injured when the bus veered off a Himalayan highway and fell into a deep gorge.

The accident occurred approximately 124 miles southeast of Srinagar, in the rugged terrain of Kashmir. The vehicle, a bus with a 42-seat capacity, was traveling from Kishtwar town to Jammu city. It skidded off the Batote-Kishtwar National Highway and plummeted around 600 feet into the gorge below.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver may have been negligent, possibly colliding with a crash barrier, leading to this tragic event. In response, local residents and emergency services rushed to the scene to commence rescue operations. The injured were quickly transported to nearby medical facilities. Some of the injured, in critical condition, were being prepared for an airlift to a hospital in Jammu city for further treatment.

Reports suggest the bus was carrying 56 passengers, pointing to a likelihood of overcrowding, a known issue in such transportation accidents. Police are investigating to determine the exact cause of the accident, with overcrowding and speeding being key factors under consideration.

Indian Prime Minister Modi stated that financial aid of about $2,400 for each of the victims’ families and about $600 for each of the injured would be allocated.

This incident is among several recent bus-related accidents in India, underscoring the persistent challenges in road safety and vehicle maintenance in the country. Notably, similar accidents occurred in Kerala and on the Chennai-Bengaluru highway on November 11, leading to additional fatalities and injuries.

In light of these events, the Indian government and regional authorities are anticipated to reassess and enhance safety protocols to mitigate the risk of future accidents.