Jammu: Tragedy struck on the Jammu-Rajouri National Highway as a bus, en route from Uttar Pradesh, veered off the road and fell into a gorge in the Akhnoor area on Thursday. The devastating incident claimed the lives of at least 21 individuals, with an additional 40 sustaining injuries.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed grief over the accident. Taking to X (formerly Twitter) President Murmu wrote, “Pained beyond words to learn about the loss of lives in a bus accident in Akhnoor near Jammu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery of the injured.”
Pained beyond words to learn about the loss of lives in a bus accident in Akhnoor near Jammu. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery of the injured.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 30, 2024
According to Rajinder Singh Tara, the Transport Commissioner of the region, preliminary investigations suggest that the driver may have been unable to negotiate a routine turn, possibly due to fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel.
Those injured have been swiftly transported to a hospital in Akhnoor, while individuals in critical condition are being referred to Jammu for further medical attention.
