J&K: Five soldiers killed as army vehicle plunges into Gorge, rescue operations underway

J-K News: An army vehicle tragically plunged into a gorge in the Balnoi area of Mendhar, Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers and numerous injuries among their comrades. The vehicle, part of the 11 Madras Light Infantry (11 MLI), was en route from Nilam Headquarters to Balnoi Ghora Post when it veered off course and fell approximately 350 feet into a steep gorge.

Immediate Response and Rescue Operations

Upon learning of the incident, the Quick Reaction Team from 11 MLI swiftly mobilized to initiate rescue operations. The injured personnel received immediate medical attention at the site, and efforts are ongoing to evacuate them for advanced treatment. The White Knight Corps expressed their condolences, stating, "All ranks of #WhiteKnightCorps extend their deepest condolences on the tragic loss of five brave soldiers in a vehicle accident during operational duty in the #Poonch sector. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the injured personnel receive medical care."

Context of the Incident

This unfortunate accident highlights the dangers faced by military personnel operating in challenging terrains, especially near conflict zones like Jammu and Kashmir. The region has seen a series of accidents involving army vehicles in recent months. For instance, just last month, an Army personnel lost their life while another was injured when their vehicle skidded off the road in Rajouri district. Similarly, earlier incidents have involved civilian casualties due to similar accidents in hilly areas.

The pattern of accidents raises concerns about the safety measures for military operations in such hazardous environments. On November 4, an incident near Badog village resulted in one soldier's death and another's critical injuries after their vehicle fell into a gorge. Additionally, another tragic event occurred on November 2 when three individuals, including a woman and her infant son, died after their car skidded off a hilly road in Reasi district.

 As rescue efforts continue and investigations into this latest accident unfold, the focus remains on providing care for the injured soldiers and addressing safety protocols to prevent future tragedies. The loss of life among brave soldiers serving in operational duties is a poignant reminder of the risks they face daily.