J-K: At Least 9 Dead, 33 Injured As Bus With Pilgrims Plunges Into Gorge In Reasi After Terror Attack

A bus carrying pilgrims to the Shiv Khori temple in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district plunged into a deep gorge after suspected terrorists opened fire on it. 9 people died and 33 were injured in the accident.

Reasi Terror Attack: A bus carrying pilgrims to the Shiv Khori temple met with a tragic fate on Sunday as it plunged into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district. The incident occurred after terrorists opened fire on the 53-seater bus, causing it to veer off the road. According to initial reports, the bus, en route to the Shiv Khori temple, came under attack in Teryath village in Poni area at around 6.15 pm, news agency PTI reported. The attack resulted in the bus plummeting into the gorge.  

According to news agency PTI, Superintendent of Police Reasi Mohita Sharma confirmed that at least nine people died and 33 were injured in the accident.

"A very unfortunate incident has happened. Initial reports suggest that terrorists fired upon the bus, which had left from Shivpuri towards Katra. The driver lost balance and the bus fell into a gorge. Rescue operation has been completed. Nine are feared dead and 33 are injured, who have been taken to Narayana Hospital and District Hospital," she said.

Authorities swiftly launched a rescue operation, with reinforcements from the police, army, and paramilitary forces rushed to the scene.

A video related to the incident has emerged, depicting the bus lying several feet below the road, with a crowd gathered at the scene. Following the plunge, pilgrims aboard the bus were thrown onto large rocks. The deceased include both men and women.

Security was heightened in the district following the incident.

Reasi Terror Attack: PM Modi Takes Stock Of Situation, Round-The-Clock Helpline Set Up

Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi took stock of the situation and has asked him to monitor it constantly.

"I strongly condemn the cowardly terror attack on a bus in Reasi. My condolences to the family members of the martyred civilians. Our security forces and JKP have launched a joint operation to hunt down the terrorists," Sinha wrote.

"PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji took stock of the situation and has asked me to constantly monitor the situation. All those behind this heinous act will be punished soon. Hon'ble PM has also directed that all the injured are provided the best possible medical care & assistance," he added.

Additional director general of police (ADGP) Jammu informed that a round-the-clock helpline has been set up by the District Administration for info and assistance regarding the incident.

Further details regarding the incident are awaited.