Two people were killed and one sustained injuries after a vehicle they were traveling in skidded off the Mughal Road and plunged into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Tuesday, officials said.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred near the Behramgala area on the historic Mughal Road, which connects the Kashmir Valley with the Rajouri and Poonch districts. The vehicle, a passenger car, was en route to Poonch when the driver lost control due to slippery road conditions, causing it to veer off the road and fall into a gorge approximately 200 feet deep.
Local residents and police immediately launched a rescue operation. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital, where two of them were declared dead on arrival. The deceased have been identified as Mohammad Shafi (45) and Ghulam Mohammad (38), both residents of Poonch. The injured person, identified as Shabir Ahmed (28), is reported to be in critical condition and has been referred to a higher medical facility for specialized treatment.
Rescue and Investigation
Senior police and civil administration officials visited the accident site to assess the situation. The vehicle was later retrieved from the gorge with the help of a crane. Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, though preliminary reports suggest that poor visibility and wet roads due to recent snowfall and rain may have contributed to the mishap.
The Mughal Road, known for its scenic beauty, is a vital link for the region but remains treacherous during winter months due to snow and ice. Officials have urged drivers to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines while traveling on the road, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Community Response
The tragic incident has cast a pall of gloom over the area. Local residents expressed grief over the loss of lives and called for improved road safety measures, including better signage and barriers along vulnerable stretches of the Mughal Road. The district administration has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased and free medical treatment for the injured.
This is the second major accident on the Mughal Road in the past month, raising concerns about road safety in the region. Authorities have assured that steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future, including enhanced patrolling and installation of warning systems at accident-prone spots.
