A tragic accident in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir on August 7, 2025, resulted in the death of three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel and injuries to several others. A vehicle carrying 23 CRPF personnel from the 187th battalion overturned and fell into a deep gorge near the Kandva–Basantgarh area.
The incident occurred around 10:30 am when the vehicle was en route to a location in the hilly terrain of Basantgarh. According to officials, the vehicle skidded off the road and rolled down into the gorge in the Kadwa area. Initial reports indicated that two personnel died immediately, while another succumbed to injuries en route to the hospital. In addition to the fatalities, between 8 and 15 personnel sustained injuries, with some reported to be in critical condition. The injured were promptly evacuated to nearby hospitals for treatment. Some of the critically injured may be transferred to the Army hospital in Udhampur for advanced medical care.
Following the accident, local police, civil administration, and volunteers initiated a rescue operation. Additional SP Sandeep Bhat confirmed the swift rescue efforts and the immediate transfer of the injured to hospitals. Locals also voluntarily came forward to assist in the rescue operations.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed his concern and is closely monitoring the situation with Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai. He conveyed his condolences and assured full support to the victims and their families. In a post on X, Singh stated that rescue measures were initiated immediately, and all possible help was being ensured. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also expressed his condolences and assured the best possible care and assistance to the injured.
The accident highlights the challenges and risks faced by security forces operating in the rugged and hilly terrain of Udhampur. The difficult landscape poses a significant threat, with accidents occurring during patrol and other operations.