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Overloaded private bus plunges down hillside near Udhampur; 21 dead, 50+ injured
An overloaded private bus carrying 63 passengers plunged nearly 100 feet down a hillside at Kaghote Morh in Udhampur district, hitting an autorickshaw and landing upside down. At least 21 people were killed and more than 50 were injured. Rescue operations involved an army convoy and locals, with authorities announcing compensation for the families and injured.
Why It Matters
The crash highlights concerns about road safety and overloading on hilly routes in the region. Officials announced condolences and ex-gratia payments to victims and families.
Timeline
3 Events
Officials, President and Prime Minister offer condolences and announce ex-gratia relief
April 21, 2026
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives. Modi announced an ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh for families of those killed and ₹50,000 for the injured. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured assistance. Omar Abdullah announced ex-gratia of ₹2 lakh per deceased next of kin, ₹1 lakh for those seriously injured, and ₹25,000 for minor injuries.
Rescue operations with army assistance and local volunteers
April 20, 2026
An army convoy passing along the hilly stretch assisted in the rescue operations, with locals also helping. Rescue teams and ambulances were mobilised, and victims were shifted to hospitals within about an hour of the accident.
Bus plunges down hillside near Kaghote Morh on Ramnagar-Udhampur road
April 20, 2026
Around 9:30 am, an overloaded 42-seater private bus carrying 63 passengers from Ramnagar to Udhampur plunged nearly 100 feet down a hillside at Kaghote Morh, struck an autorickshaw, and landed upside down on the road below. Fifteen passengers were found dead at the site, with six more dying in hospital, taking the death toll to at least 21 and injuring more than 50.