Government Degree College Sogam students met with an accident in Handwara; leaders express deep sorrow
A bus carrying college girls to a picnic destination crashed in the Handwara area of North Kashmir on Wednesday, killing two students and injuring 14 others.
Bus Overturns at Vodbhpora Village
The bus, which was ferrying 16 girl students from Government Degree College (GDC), Sogam, overturned at Vodbhpora village near Handwara. Locals rushed to the site and helped shift the injured students to a nearby hospital. One student was declared dead upon arrival.
Three critically injured students were referred to Srinagar for advanced medical care. Sadly, one of them later succumbed to injuries at the Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar.
Leaders Express Condolences and Support
The tragic accident triggered an outpouring of grief from state and local leadership:
- Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his sorrow:
“The loss of two young promising students from GDC Sogam in the tragic accident near Handwara is a tragedy that weighs heavily on all of us. The government is closely monitoring the situation and ensuring all necessary assistance.” - Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha conveyed his “deep anguish”, mourning the loss of young lives.
- Health and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo instructed the director of Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) to personally oversee the treatment of the injured.
- Handwara legislator Sajad Lone visited the GMC Handwara hospital, assuring the public that “all students admitted here at the moment are safe.”
Community in Mourning
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the student community and local residents. College authorities and local leaders are working closely with healthcare professionals to provide the best care for the injured.
The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by authorities.
