Jammu, Jan 22:
Vishal Chopra, National Chairman of the National Anti Terrorism Front (NATF), has expressed profound grief and shock over the devastating road accident at Khani Top in Bhaderwah, which claimed the lives of 10 Indian Army personnel and left several others injured.
‘A Monumental Loss’
In a statement issued today, Mr. Chopra described the incident as a “monumental loss for the nation.” He emphasized that the sacrifice of the soldiers, who serve in the most challenging terrains to ensure the country’s security, can never be forgotten.
“My heart goes out to the bereaved families of these martyrs. No words can soothe the pain of losing a loved one in such a tragic manner,” Chopra said.
Status of the Injured
The accident, which occurred on the high-altitude route in the Doda district, involved a vehicle plunging into a deep gorge. While 10 jawans were martyred, 10 others are currently undergoing treatment. Reports indicate that several of the injured were airlifted to Udhampur for specialized medical intervention.
Mr. Chopra prayed for the speedy recovery of the survivors and made a direct appeal to the UT administration and Army authorities to ensure the “best possible medical care” is provided to those fighting for their lives.
Calls for Infrastructure Reform
Beyond the immediate condolences, the NATF Chairman raised serious concerns regarding the safety of the Chenab Valley’s road network. Highlighting the “frequent occurrence” of such accidents, he called for:
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A Comprehensive Safety Review: Immediate audit of high-altitude routes in the Bhaderwah and Doda regions.
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Infrastructure Upgrades: Strengthening of crash barriers and road widening on treacherous stretches.
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Preventative Policy: Implementation of stricter transit protocols for high-capacity vehicles in the region.
“We cannot allow our bravehearts to be lost to preventable road hazards. The government must prioritize infrastructure on these high-altitude routes to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Chopra reiterated.
