BREAKING: 3 Soldiers Dead as Army Vehicle Skids Off Road in Jammu and Kashmir's Bandipore

Bandipora, Jammu and Kashmir:  Three soldiers lost their lives, and three others were critically injured when an army vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in the SK Payeen area of Bandipora district, North Kashmir, on Saturday.

The accident occurred early Friday morning, reportedly due to slippery road conditions. 

The vehicle lost control on a sharp turn and plunged into a nearby gorge. Local residents and rescue teams promptly rushed to the scene, pulling the injured from the wreckage.

The injured were taken to the District Hospital in Bandipora, where doctors declared two individuals dead on arrival. Those critically injured, including soldiers onboard, are being shifted to Srinagar for advanced medical treatment.

Speaking to reporters, district hospital's medical superintendent Dr Masrat Iqbal said two soldiers were "brought dead". "The three injured (soldiers) were resuscitated and then referred to Srinagar," he added. 

Expressing grief over the incident, the Indian Army in a tweet said, "On 04 Jan 24, while performing duty in Bandipora District, a vehicle of Indian Army skid and fell into the gorge due to inclement weather and poor visibility conditions. Injured soldiers were promptly evacuated for medical care with assistance from Kashmiri locals, for which we express gratitude towards the citizens in providing immediate succour. Tragically three bravehearts lost their lives in the unfortunate accident. Indian Army extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families."

Meanwhile, officials have launched an investigation into the accident.