At least 16 people lost their lives and several others were injured after a passenger bus met with a tragic accident in Udhampur on Monday morning.

According to officials, the bus was travelling from Ramnagar to Udhampur when it lost control near Kaghote Morh in the Ramnagar tehsil and plunged into a deep gorge. Authorities confirmed that 16 passengers died on the spot, while many others sustained serious injuries.

Rescue teams, including police personnel, locals, and the army, quickly rushed to the site and launched an extensive rescue operation. The injured were evacuated and taken to the Government Medical College in Udhampur for urgent treatment.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh shared updates on the incident, stating that multiple casualties had been confirmed and that emergency response teams were working on-site. He added that efforts were underway to ensure timely medical care for the injured, with arrangements being made to airlift those in critical condition if required.

Earlier, Singh said he had spoken with district officials soon after the accident was reported and assured that all possible assistance was being provided.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the tragedy, extending condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery to those injured. He also directed the district administration, police, SDRF, and health departments to ensure all necessary support and relief measures for those affected.