Doda: A tragic incident unfolded in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday when a massive stone dislodged from a hillside and crashed onto a moving passenger vehicle, killing one woman and injuring five others.
The mishap took place near Baswal village, along the Doda–Bharat road, a stretch known for its narrow, hilly terrain and vulnerability to landslides, particularly during periods of unstable weather.
Victim Identified
According to officials, 32-year-old Razia Begum succumbed to her injuries shortly after the accident. She was among the six passengers traveling in the vehicle, all of whom were reportedly residents of Bharat Bagla village.
The injured have been identified as Sonia Devi (32), Zulekha Begum (30), Kamran (2 years old), Ghulam Hassan (31), and Imran Hussain (4 years old).
All five were rushed to Government Medical College (GMC) Hospital in Doda, where they are currently receiving treatment. Medical officials have confirmed that two of the injured are children, adding to the emotional weight of the tragedy.
Sudden Rockfall Caught Passengers Off Guard
Local sources suggest that the stone fell without warning, likely due to natural erosion or recent weather conditions that weakened the hillside. The vehicle, a local transport option frequently used by villagers in the region, was en route to Bharat when the rock struck.
Emergency services, along with residents from nearby areas, were quick to respond. Rescue operations were carried out swiftly, and the injured were extracted from the wreckage before being transported to the hospital.
Ongoing Risk in Hilly Areas
This incident has once again highlighted the risks associated with travel in mountainous areas of Jammu and Kashmir, where road safety is often compromised by frequent rockslides and unpredictable terrain shifts.
District officials have urged travelers to exercise caution, especially along roads prone to landslides. Authorities are also expected to review safety measures on the Doda–Bharat road to prevent further accidents.
A formal investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the stone fall, and local police are preparing a report based on eyewitness accounts and evidence from the scene.
