Doda Accident10 Army Soldiers Martyred as Vehicle Plunges into Gorge

In a heartbreaking incident from Jammu and Kashmir, 10 Indian Army personnel lost their lives when their vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in the Doda district. The tragedy occurred on Thursday, January 22, 2026, leaving the nation in mourning.

This accident has once again highlighted the challenging conditions our armed forces face while operating in the difficult terrains of the Himalayas. Here is a detailed report on what happened, the rescue operations, and the official government response.

What Happened at Khanni Top?

The accident took place around noon at Khanni Top, a high-altitude area located along the Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate road. According to official reports, a bulletproof Army vehicle (Casspir) was carrying 21 soldiers from a Rashtriya Rifles unit. They were en route to a forward post for an anti-terror operation.

While navigating a steep curve, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle due to slippery road conditions caused by black ice and bad weather. The heavy armored vehicle veered off the road and fell into a 200-foot-deep gorge.

Casualties and Rescue Operation

The impact of the fall was devastating. A massive joint rescue operation was immediately launched by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and local residents.

• Fatalities: 10 brave soldiers were martyred in the accident. Four bodies were recovered initially, while six others succumbed to their injuries later.
• Injuries: 11 other personnel sustained serious injuries.
• Medical Evacuation: The injured soldiers were swiftly evacuated from the crash site. Those in critical condition were airlifted to the Command Hospital in Udhampur for specialized medical treatment. One soldier is reportedly under observation at the Bhaderwah Sub-District Hospital.

Official Reactions and Government Statement

The tragic loss of lives has drawn condolences from the highest levels of the government.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep anguish, stating, “Deeply anguished by the mishap in Doda, in which we have lost our brave army personnel. Their service to the nation will be remembered forever.”
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured that the injured are receiving the best possible medical care.
• J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed their grief, standing in solidarity with the families of the martyrs.

Why This Area is Critical

The Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban region is known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. The Bhaderwah-Chamba road, where the accident occurred, is a crucial link connecting Jammu and Kashmir with Himachal Pradesh.

However, during winter, these high-altitude roads become extremely dangerous due to snow and the formation of black ice—a thin coating of glaze ice that is visually transparent and difficult for drivers to spot. Despite these risks, the Indian Army maintains a constant vigil in the area to counter security threats and ensure peace.

What Happens Next?

The Indian Army has ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate the exact cause of the accident. While preliminary reports suggest bad weather and slippery roads were the primary factors, the inquiry will look into all technical aspects of the vehicle and the road conditions.

Meanwhile, the bodies of the fallen soldiers will be sent to their native places with full military honors after the necessary procedural formalities are completed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)