Poonch (Jammu & Kashmir): A tragic accident claimed the lives of five soldiers and left five others critically injured when an Army vehicle plunged into a gorge near the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district on Tuesday evening. The vehicle, part of an Army convoy, veered off the road while navigating an operational track along the LoC.
According to an official statement from the Army, the incident occurred around 5:20 PM when a 2.5-ton vehicle, part of a convoy of six, lost control at a bend and fell into a deep ravine. The accident took place on the Indian side of the LoC fence. A police team from Mankote and a Quick Reaction Team (QRT) from the 11 Maratha Light Infantry rushed to the scene to carry out rescue operations.
The casualties were evacuated to the Field Hospital at Poonch, where the injured personnel are receiving medical care. The Army expressed its deep condolences for the loss of the soldiers, calling them “brave” in a message posted on social media. “Rescue operations are ongoing, and the injured personnel are receiving medical care,” stated the White Knight Corps.
An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, although initial reports suggest that the driver may have lost control on a sharp bend. Authorities have confirmed that the incident was not related to any terrorist activity.
