Five people died in a road accident in the Dachhan area of Kishtwar district on Saturday morning. The incident occurred when a vehicle skidded off the road and fell into the Chenab River.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and directed the district administration to provide immediate assistance to those affected by the accident.
The accident involved a Mahindra Scorpio, registration number HR29AG-0648, which veered off the road at Yainwan in Dangdaroo and plunged into the river. As of Saturday, five bodies had been recovered, and efforts were underway to ascertain the identities of the deceased.
This unfortunate incident highlights the persistent dangers posed by road travel in the mountainous terrain of the Chenab Valley. The region is known for its steep slopes and roads that often run alongside deep gorges, factors that have contributed to a history of fatal road mishaps. Residents and authorities are acutely aware of these risks, which are exacerbated by weather conditions and road infrastructure.
The mountainous geography of Kishtwar and surrounding districts presents unique challenges for transportation. Roads are often narrow, winding, and lack adequate safety barriers, making driving particularly hazardous. The Chenab River, while a source of life and energy for the region, also poses a grave danger when accidents occur near its banks.
The frequency of such accidents underscores a long-standing concern for public safety in the region. In November 2023, a devastating accident in the Assar area of Doda district, also within the Chenab Valley, claimed the lives of 39 people when a passenger bus fell into a deep gorge. This incident served as a grim reminder of the vulnerability of commuters in the area.
Dachhan, the specific location of Saturday’s accident, has also been the site of past major tragedies. In July 2021, a cloudburst in Hunzar village, located in the Dachhan area, resulted in the deaths of 26 people and left many others injured. These events, while different in nature, collectively paint a picture of a region facing significant natural and man-made risks.
Following the accident, senior officials were reportedly dispatched to the scene to oversee rescue and recovery operations. The immediate focus remained on retrieving the bodies and initiating processes for their identification and subsequent handover to the families. The district administration is expected to launch a detailed investigation into the cause of the accident to identify any lapses and recommend preventive measures.
The Lieutenant Governor’s directive for immediate assistance signifies the administration’s commitment to supporting the affected families during this difficult time. Such support often includes financial aid, counseling, and logistical help for funeral arrangements. The review of road safety measures in accident-prone areas is also expected to be a priority in the coming days.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
