15 Dead, 20 Injured After Bus Overturns In Udhampur; PM Modi Announces Ex-Gratia, Rescue Ops On

A tragic road accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district has claimed at least 15 lives and left around 20 people injured.

The incident took place on Monday morning, sending shockwaves across the region.

Bus Overturns in Hilly Area

The accident occurred in the Khagot area of Ramnagar when a public transport bus lost control and overturned. The vehicle was travelling from Ramnagar to Udhampur at the time.

#WATCH | Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir: Shiv Kumar Sharma, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Udhampur-Reasi Range, says, "We stand with the affected families and will provide them with all possible help. Medical treatment is our top priority right now, ensuring that we provide… pic.twitter.com/X67JSpNQ4v

— ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2026

Due to the difficult terrain and hilly roads, such accidents can turn severe quickly. The impact of the crash caused heavy casualties among passengers.

Rescue Operations Launched Immediately

As soon as authorities were informed, rescue teams rushed to the spot. Multiple ambulances were sent, and emergency workers began rescue operations without delay.

#WATCH | Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir: Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Udhampur, Prem Singh Chib, says, "This is very sad news for our Udhampur district. This bus was travelling from Ramnagar to Udhampur. Students, employees, and others were on board. So far, approximately… pic.twitter.com/LjIe1e4WZu

— ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2026

Injured passengers were pulled out of the overturned bus and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials are closely monitoring the condition of those seriously hurt.

Authorities Respond Swiftly

Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the incident and said he spoke with Udhampur Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa soon after the accident.

On the Udhampur bus accident, PM Modi says, "Pained to hear about the loss of lives due to a bus accident in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their near and dear ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex… pic.twitter.com/3rBDIwJ6Fz

— ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2026

He assured that all possible help is being provided and that rescue efforts started immediately. Arrangements are also being made to airlift critically injured patients for better medical care.

Leaders Express Grief

Several leaders expressed sadness over the tragic loss of lives.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he was deeply pained by the accident and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his grief and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Ex-Gratia Compensation Announced

The Prime Minister announced financial assistance for the victims.
An ex-gratia amount of ₹2 lakh will be given to the families of those who lost their lives. Injured persons will receive ₹50,000 to help with their treatment and recovery.

Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the accident. Initial reports suggest that the bus may have lost control on the hilly road, but a detailed inquiry will provide more clarity.

The Udhampur bus accident is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of road travel in hilly regions. As rescue efforts continue and injured passengers receive treatment, the focus remains on providing support to affected families and preventing such tragedies in the future.