The death toll from Wednesday's accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district has risen to ten, with two more casualties reported on Thursday. Officials confirmed that the victims, who had been hospitalised, succumbed to their injuries.
Dr Ruby, Principal of GMC Baramulla, stated that two more people who had previously been admitted for specialised treatment at SKIMS Srinagar succumbed to their injuries late last night. The deceased have been identified as Shabir Ahmed (son of Abdul Gani) and Shabir Ahmed (son of Mohammed Abdullah), both of whom lived in Bujithallan.
The accident occurred when a vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in Uri's Boniyar area, killing seven people and injuring eight. Slippery road conditions, exacerbated by light snowfall in north Kashmir districts, were cited as contributing factors.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh for the deceased's next of kin.
"Deeply saddened by the tragic accidents in Baramulla and Kishtwar. My thoughts are with the families who have lost a loved one. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured," Sinha said in an X post.
Peoples Democratic Party president and former J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti conveyed her shock over the incident, urging the government to initiate prompt relief efforts.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and I extend my sincere condolences to them. I also wish a speedy recovery to those who have been injured in this unfortunate incident," she said.
(With Inputs From Agencies)