Udhampur: The Indian Air Force (IAF) airlifted 18 injured CRPF jawans to the Military Hospital in Udhampur after their vehicle skidded off a rain-soaked road near Basantgarh in Jammu and Kashmir.
Responding to a distress call, the IAF launched a swift rescue operation within 35 minutes, conducting multiple helicopter shuttles to evacuate the injured personnel—including critical cases accompanied by attendants—to safety.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the IAF stated:
“An #IndianAirForce helicopter swiftly responded to a distress call after 18 CRPF jawans were injured near Basantgarh (Udhampur) when their bus skidded off the road amid heavy rains. Launched within 35 mins of the request, the IAF crew undertook multiple shuttles, airlifting the injured personnel to Military Hospital Udhampur. The prompt and sustained effort underscores the IAF’s unwavering commitment to saving lives when every minute counts.”
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, expressed condolences to the families of the CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the tragic accident near Kandva, Basantgarh. He also directed senior officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.
In a statement shared by the Office of the Lt Governor on X, he said:
“Saddened by the loss of CRPF personnel due to an accident near Udhampur. We will never forget their exemplary service to the nation. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Directed senior officials to ensure the best possible care and assistance.”
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also conveyed her condolences, stating:
“The news of the martyrdom of CRPF jawans and injuries to several others due to a vehicle accident in Udhampur, Jammu-Kashmir is deeply distressing. May God grant peace to the departed souls. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The nation is forever indebted to our brave jawans and their families. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”
Earlier, Additional Superintendent of Police Sandeep Bhat confirmed that two CRPF personnel lost their lives and 12 others were injured in the incident. He said the police launched a rescue operation immediately after receiving the report and moved the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment.
According to initial reports, the CRPF vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge due to heavy rainfall and slippery conditions.
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, also responded to the incident. He spoke with Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai, who is overseeing the situation on the ground.
Sharing an update on X, he wrote:
“Udhampur: Disturbing to receive the news of a road accident involving a CRPF vehicle in the Kandva-Basantgarh area. I have spoken with DC Ms. Saloni Rai, who is personally monitoring the situation and keeping me updated.”
He further noted the voluntary efforts of local residents who came forward to assist in the rescue:
“Rescue measures have been initiated immediately. Locals have voluntarily come forward to assist. All possible help is being ensured.”
