Handwara: A college bus carrying students on a picnic trip overturned in Vodpora area of Handwara on Saturday morning, leaving one girl student dead and at least 18 others injured.
An official told news agency JKNS that the bus was en route to Srinagar when the driver reportedly lost control, causing the vehicle to turn turtle. There were 27 people on board, including students and staff.
“One female student died on the spot, while 16 injured students have been referred to GMC Handwara,” an official said, adding that two critically injured students have been shifted to a Srinagar hospital for specialized treatment.
Rescue teams, police, and locals rushed to the spot immediately after the accident and helped shift the injured to nearby medical facilities.
Authorities have launched an investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the mishap.
Meanwhile, the Office of the J&K Chief Minister, as per JKNS, wrote on X, “The loss of young Tabasum Mushtaq, a promising student from GDC Sogam, in the tragic accident near Handwara is a tragedy that weighs heavily on all of us. My deepest condolences to her family in this hour of grief. Prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. We are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring all necessary assistance.”
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also took to X, stating, “Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a young student in the bus accident at Handwara. My heartfelt condolences to her grieving parents. May Allah grant them strength and patience during this unimaginably difficult time. Praying for the swift and complete recovery of the injured students.”
Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone expressed his concern, saying, “A bus carrying students met with an accident near Vodhpora. Many students are injured and some are injured grievously. Some of them are being treated at Handwara GMC while some have been referred to GMC Srinagar. My prayers and hope that the students recover fast.” (JKNS)
