Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 12: Two girl students lost their lives while 23 others received injuries after a bus carrying students of Government Degree College (GDC) Sogam en route to a picnic met with an accident in Handwara area of Kupwara district today.
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The accident occurred around this morning, shortly after the college bus reportedly lost control and overturned. They said the emergency teams, along with local residents, rushed to the scene to rescue the injured and shift them to Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara.
Among the deceased are Asiya Rashid, who was declared brought dead at GMC Handwara, and Mymoona Ali, a final-year student who later succumbed to her injuries at a hospital in Srinagar after being referred in critical condition.
The students from Government Degree College (GDC) Sogam had set off early for a recreational trip to the Tulip Garden in Srinagar when the incident occurred.
Medical Superintendent, GMC Handwara, Dr Aijaz said 23 students were injured in the mishap, most of whom are in stable condition. “We referred two critically injured students to Srinagar for specialized treatment. Unfortunately, one of them could not survive,” he said. Click here to watch video
Meanwhile, a magisterial inquiry has also been ordered to probe the circumstances that led to the mishap.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, in a condolence message on X, said: “The news of the death of two young students in the Handwara College Bus accident is extremely heartbreaking. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved family members. Praying for the early recovery of the injured.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended his condolences, stating, “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. My deepest condolences to her family in this hour of grief. Prayers for the swift recovery of the injured.” He added that the government is closely monitoring the situation and ensuring all necessary support is provided.
The Chief Minister announced that Rs 1 lakh will be provided to the families of the deceased, Rs 50,000 for those injured and Rs 25,000 for those who sustained minor injuries.
Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo said, “Deeply saddened by the tragic road accident involving students of GDC Sogam that claimed the lives of young Asiya Rashid and Maymoona Ali and injured several others. My heartfelt condolences to their family. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
“I’ve directed Director SKIMS, Principal GMC Handwara, Principal GMC Srinagar, CMO Kupwara and other Health officials to ensure the best treatment for the injured,” she posted on X.
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