Tragedy in Doda: 10 Army Personnel Killed in Road Accident (January 2026)
In a heartbreaking incident on January 22, 2026, ten Indian Army personnel lost their lives and ten others were injured when their bulletproof vehicle plunged into a deep gorge in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The accident occurred at Khanni Top along the treacherous Bhaderwah-Chamba interstate road.
The soldiers, belonging to the 4 Rashtriya Rifles (Bihar), were reportedly en route for an operational movement when the vehicle skidded off the icy road in inclement weather.
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1. Key Details of the Incident
The accident has sent shockwaves across the nation, highlighting the extreme risks faced by security forces in the high-altitude terrains of the Chenab Valley.
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Location: Khanni Top, Bhaderwah-Chamba Road (approximately 9,200 feet above sea level).
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Vehicle Type: Casspir (a specialized Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected bulletproof vehicle).
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The Cause: Preliminary reports suggest the vehicle lost control on a sharp bend due to snow and frost on the road.
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Casualties: 10 soldiers confirmed dead; 10 injured (with some in critical condition).
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Rescue Effort: A joint operation by the Indian Army and J&K Police managed to evacuate the survivors despite the 200-foot drop and difficult terrain.
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2. Medical Response & Official Support
Immediately following the accident, emergency protocols were activated to save the survivors.
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Airlift to Udhampur: Critically injured soldiers were airlifted to the Command Hospital in Udhampur for specialized surgery and treatment.
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Local Care: One soldier with minor injuries is being monitored at the Sub-District Hospital in Bhaderwah.
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Inquiry Ordered: The Army has ordered a high-level inquiry to determine if mechanical failure or environmental factors were the primary cause of the tragedy.
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3. Tributes from National Leaders
The sacrifice of the soldiers has been honored by the top leadership of the country:
“The nation stands united with the bereaved families in solidarity and support. We will always remember the outstanding service and supreme sacrifice of our brave soldiers.” — Manoj Sinha, Lt Governor of J&K
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep anguish, noting that the service of these personnel to the nation will be remembered forever….
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah both assured that the highest level of medical care is being provided to the injured “bravehearts.”
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