3 BSF personnel killed, 36 injured in Budgam accident - Greater Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 20: Three Border Security Force (BSF) personnel lost their lives and 36 others were injured, among them eight critically in a road accident at Waterhail in central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Friday evening.

The death toll might go up.

The deceased personnel have been identified as Dayanand, Ram Ajadiya Singh, and Sukh Basi Lal.

“Six of the injured personnel are in critical condition and have been rushed to hospital for urgent medical attention,” officials said. “A civilian driver was also injured in the accident.”

According to officials, the accident occurred when a bus (JK03 4391), carrying 39 BSF personnel, veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge.

“Tragically, three BSF personnel were killed on the spot and 36 were injured. Six of the injured are in critical condition,” officials said adding that the injured are being treated at a hospital and senior officials of BSF and J&K Police are monitoring the developments.

Officials said that initial rescue was carried out by locals of the area and Police quickly responded and rushed the injured to Budgam District Hospital for treatment.

Soon after the accident, a joint rescue operation involving the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and other agencies reached the spot.

The rescue operation is currently underway.

SDRF officials said that so far, three bodies had been recovered, and all 36 injured BSF personnel had been rescued and transported to the hospital for further medical attention.

Director General of Police, Rashmi Ranjan Swain expressed profound sadness over the loss of BSF personnel and injuries to several others in the accident.

On behalf of the J&K Police, the DGP extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, colleagues, and loved ones of the deceased personnel.

“We mourn the loss of these dedicated soldiers who tirelessly served the nation. We pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and assure all necessary support and assistance by the J&K Police,” he said.

Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Vidhi Kumar Birdi along with IG BSF Kashmir Frontier, visited the injured BSF soldiers at the hospital.

They were joined by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, SSP Srinagar, SSP Budgam, DC Budgam, and other senior officers.

During his visit, the IGP Kashmir expressed deep concern for the well-being of the injured soldiers.

He interacted with the medical staff to ensure that they were receiving the best possible care.

Additionally, the IGP Kashmir offered words of encouragement to the injured and assured them of full support during their recovery.