Ten Indian Soldiers Killed, Eleven Injured as Army Vehicle Plunges into Gorge in High-Altitude Doda Operation Route Mishap

An Indian Army vehicle carrying troops for an operational deployment skidded off a treacherous stretch of road and plunged into a 200-foot-deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Thursday, killing 10 soldiers and injuring 11 others. 

The incident occurred around noon at Khanni Top, situated at an altitude of 9,000 feet along the Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate route, when the bulletproof Casspir vehicle veered off the snow-laden path and crashed into the gorge below.

Image Source: Ghulam Ahmed Mir

Initial reports confirmed four fatalities at the scene. A joint rescue operation by the Army and local police managed to evacuate the injured, 10 of whom were airlifted to the Udhampur Command Hospital for advanced treatment, while one remains under observation at the Bhaderwah sub-district hospital. Six more soldiers succumbed to their injuries later, bringing the death toll to 10.

Officials stated that the troops were en route to a high-altitude operational post when the accident occurred amid poor weather conditions and difficult terrain. The vehicle, designed for mine protection, sustained severe damage in the fall.

The Army’s White Knight Corps acknowledged the loss, describing it as an “unfortunate incident” during an operational movement in hostile terrain and confirmed that multiple casualties, including fatalities, had occurred.

National leaders offered condolences and reaffirmed support to the affected families and injured personnel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident “deeply anguishing,” stating that the soldiers’ service “will be remembered forever.” 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed sorrow over the loss, adding that “all necessary directions have been given to ensure the best possible treatment” for the injured.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Home Minister Amit Shah echoed similar sentiments, paying tribute to the fallen and affirming the government’s commitment to assist those injured. 

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described the accident as a moment of “profound sorrow,” saying the entire nation stands in solidarity with the bereaved families.

The tragedy underlines the extreme conditions under which Indian troops operate along high-altitude routes that remain vulnerable to landslides, inclement weather, and narrow, poorly maintained stretches. 

The Army has launched an inquiry into the cause of the incident. More details are awaited.