Bus Plunges 100 Feet Off Mountain Road Killing 21 and Injuring Dozens

A devastating bus crash in the mountains of northern India has left dozens dead and many more fighting for their lives.

The tragic incident unfolded Monday morning, April 20, in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir — a rugged area in the larger Kashmir region, which remains a disputed territory between India, Pakistan, and China.

According to officials and multiple reports, the passenger bus was carrying more than 60 people from Ramnagar to Udhampur when disaster struck around 10 a.m. local time. While navigating a sharp turn along a dangerous Himalayan highway, the bus collided with an auto-rickshaw.

What happened next was catastrophic.

The bus reportedly veered off the road and plunged nearly 100 feet down a steep slope, turning a routine journey into a mass-casualty tragedy.

Authorities confirmed that 19 people were pronounced dead at the scene, while two more later died from their injuries at a hospital — bringing the total death toll to at least 21.

The number of injured remains unclear, with reports ranging from 29 to as many as 61 people hurt. Several victims are said to be in critical condition as they receive treatment at nearby health centers.

Officials also confirmed that those riding in the auto-rickshaw involved in the crash were among the injured.

In the immediate aftermath, local residents rushed to the scene and began helping victims before emergency crews could arrive — a desperate effort in the chaotic moments following the crash.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief over the tragedy, saying he was “pained to hear about the loss of lives.”

He also announced financial assistance for the victims’ families, stating that 200,000 rupees (about $2,147) would be provided to the next of kin of those who died, while those injured would receive 50,000 rupees (about $537) from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their near and dear ones,” Modi said. “I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”