Jammu and Kashmir: PM Modi announces ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for Doda bus accident victims

Rescue operation underway after a bus carrying passengers fell into a gorge, in Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir, Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. At least 36 people were killed and 19 others suffered injuries. PTI Photo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences for the tragic bus accident in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, announcing an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the PM's National Relief Fund to the next of kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.

"The bus accident in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir is distressing. My condolences to the families who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest," conveyed the Office of the PM on X.

The Prime Minister's Office issued a statement detailing the compensation, stating, "An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. Rs 50,000 would be given to the injured."

Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the tragic toll in a post on X, indicating 36 deaths and six individuals critically injured. Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed condolences, emphasizing the active involvement of the local administration in the ongoing rescue operation.

The accident occurred when a bus with 55 passengers, en route from Kishtwar to Jammu, veered off the road and rolled down a steep slope near Trungal in the Assar area on the highway.

Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Bus accident in Doda kills 36, leaves 19 injured

In his X post, Minister Singh shared updates from DC Doda Harvinder Singh, stating, "Saddened to share the update from DC Doda Harvinder Singh from the spot of the accident. Unfortunately, 36 persons have died, and 19 injured, out of whom 6 injured are serious."

Minister Singh also noted that he had spoken to the Doda District Commissioner, Harvinder Singh, and highlighted ongoing efforts to provide necessary assistance, including arranging helicopter services for shifting the more critically injured individuals.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and directed authorities to provide all necessary assistance to the affected persons.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also condoled the loss of lives, posting on X, "Deeply shocked & saddened about the tragic road accident at Assar in Doda. Deepest condolences to the families of those feared dead & hope the administration expedites rescue operations." (With inputs from agencies)