Srinagar: Five people were killed and six others injured after a passenger vehicle skidded off the Teetwal-Simari road and fell into the Kishenganga River in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Monday.
The accident occurred in the Simari area of Karnah, near the border region of Kupwara. The vehicle reportedly went off the road before plunging into the river.
The injured were initially taken to the Sub-District Hospital in Tangdhar for treatment. They were later referred to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital in Handwara for further medical care.
Authorities were working to establish the identities of those killed and injured in the accident.
LG Manoj Sinha Expresses Grief
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident and offered condolences to the families of the deceased.
Sinha said he had directed the district administration to ensure the best possible treatment for those injured in the accident.
The authorities are also assessing the circumstances that led to the vehicle losing control and falling into the river.
Road Safety Concerns in J&K
Road accidents remain a major concern in the hilly areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Overspeeding and reckless driving have been identified among the major factors contributing to serious crashes and fatalities.
Sudden overtaking, aggressive manoeuvring and violations of lane discipline can increase the risk of collisions, particularly on narrow mountain roads.
The region’s challenging terrain also adds to road-safety risks. Steep roads, landslides, erosion, loose soil and weather-related damage can make driving conditions difficult. In some areas, inadequate crash barriers and narrow road corridors can further increase the consequences of vehicles losing control.
Traffic authorities have deployed special teams in hilly districts to check violations and take action against unsafe driving practices.