Ten Indian Army personnel lost their lives and seven others were injured when an armoured vehicle skidded off the road and fell into a 200-foot-deep gorge in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir on January 22, 2026. The vehicle, carrying 17 soldiers, was en route to a high-altitude post along the Bhaderwah–Chamba road when the driver lost control at Khanni Top, leading to the fatal plunge.

A swift joint rescue operation involving the Army, police, and local residents was launched immediately after the mishap. Initial reports indicated four soldiers were found dead at the site, while 13 injured personnel were pulled out and rushed to a nearby military hospital. Seven of the critically injured later succumbed to their wounds, raising the death toll to ten. Some of the severely hurt soldiers were airlifted to the military hospital in Udhampur for advanced care.

Senior civil and military officials reached the accident spot to assess the situation and oversee relief efforts. The incident occurred against the backdrop of intensified security arrangements across the Union Territory to ensure peaceful Republic Day celebrations on January 26.

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Road accidents in the hilly and treacherous terrain of Jammu and Kashmir, especially during winter months, remain a persistent risk for security forces due to narrow mountain roads, sudden weather changes, and challenging driving conditions. This latest tragedy has once again highlighted the occupational hazards faced by troops deployed in high-altitude and border areas.

The Army and local administration have initiated a detailed inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident, including possible factors like road conditions, vehicle maintenance, or adverse weather.

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