In a devastating incident that occurred on Monday evening, four individuals, including a married couple, lost their lives when a private car skidded off the road and rolled 300 feet down into the banks of the river Chenab in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district. The accident took place at Raggi Nallah on the Batote-Kishtwar National Highway, leaving the community in shock and mourning the untimely loss of lives.
The bodies of the deceased were recovered after a joint rescue operation carried out by the police and local volunteers who tirelessly worked for several hours to retrieve them. Doda Senior Superintendent of Police, Abdul Qayoom, headed the rescue mission and confirmed that the vehicle was en route from Pul-Doda to Jammu when the driver lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle. As a result, the car skidded off the road, plummeting 300 feet and ultimately landing on the bank of the Chenab River.
Among the victims were Om Prasad (60), his wife Roda Devi (52), and Om Prasad’s elder brother, Ved Prakash (67), all hailing from Gajoth-Bhalla. Additionally, their relative Raj Kumari (56) from Bharasu village also lost her life in the tragic accident. One more individual was fortunate enough to be rescued alive but sustained injuries and was immediately rushed to the Government Medical College in Doda for medical treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that overspeeding was a contributing factor in the accident. Such incidents serve as a grim reminder of the importance of adhering to traffic rules and regulations to ensure the safety of oneself and others on the road. The loss of four lives in this unfortunate event has left the community in deep sorrow, as families mourn the sudden departure of their loved ones.
The authorities have expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased and assured them that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the exact circumstances that led to the accident. Efforts will also be made to raise awareness about safe driving practices to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
As the news of this tragic accident spreads, it serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the need for utmost caution while traveling. May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may their families find strength and solace during this difficult time.