Three CRPF Personnel Killed, 16 Injured After Vehicle Falls Into Nallah in J&K’s Udhampur

At least three CRPF personnel lost their lives and 16 others sustained injuries after a vehicle carrying them plunged into a nallah in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district on Thursday morning, according to news agency PTI.

The tragic accident occurred around 10:30 AM when the personnel, belonging to the 187 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), were returning from an operation in the Basant Garh area. A total of 23 personnel were travelling in the vehicle at the time of the incident.

Rescue Operations Underway

Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the incident took place in the Kandva–Basantgarh area, adding that rescue efforts are ongoing.

“I have just spoken to DC Saloni Rai, who is on the ground and monitoring the situation closely,” Singh said on X (formerly Twitter), commending local residents for assisting in rescue efforts.

Casualty Update

Initial reports stated that two CRPF jawans had died. However, a third succumbed to injuries later in hospital, PTI reported.

According to Additional SP Udhampur Sandeep Bhat, all injured personnel have been shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. Further medical support is being extended as needed.

Official Condolences

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families.

“Saddened by the loss of CRPF personnel due to an accident near Udhampur. We will never forget their exemplary service to the nation,” Sinha said in a post, adding that all possible assistance is being provided and prayers are with the injured for a speedy recovery.

Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the cause of the accident.