Nazim Ali Manhas
Poonch, (DD) A tragic accident involving an Army vehicle occurred at Gantar Mor, in the Sawjian area of Poonch district, today, leaving four soldiers injured.
The accident took place around 12:30 PM, when the vehicle, navigating the difficult terrain, reportedly lost control and skidded off the road.
The soldiers, who were part of a routine military convoy, sustained injuries in the crash. Prompt action was taken, and the injured personnel were immediately transported to the Army Headquarters in Sawjian, where they were provided with first aid. Medical teams are currently monitoring their condition, and further updates are expected.
The accident has raised concerns about the safety of Army personnel while traversing the rugged and treacherous roads of Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s mountainous landscape and unpredictable weather conditions make travel particularly hazardous for military convoys and personnel on duty. This incident is the latest in a series of similar accidents in the area, underscoring the risks faced by soldiers stationed in such difficult terrains.
Just weeks ago, on January 4, another devastating accident occurred in Bandipora district, where four soldiers were killed when their vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge. In December 2024, a similar accident in Poonch claimed the lives of five soldiers and injured several others.
The frequency of such incidents has prompted local authorities and military officials to re-evaluate safety measures. There is growing concern about the infrastructure and vehicle safety standards, particularly in high-risk areas. As investigations into the Sawjian accident continue, military authorities are expected to review protocols for better protecting personnel while traveling in Jammu and Kashmir’s challenging geographical landscape.
The injured soldiers’ families are being notified, and the community has come together to offer support as the Army personnel recover. As the region continues to face security challenges, it remains clear that enhancing road safety for the armed forces is an urgent priority to safeguard the lives of those serving in the region.(DD)