Army personnel die in Arunachal Pradesh accident: truck plunges into gorge

Itanagar, August 28 2024 : A tragic accident occurred early Tuesday morning in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district, resulting in the deaths of three Army personnel and injuries to several others. The accident occurred at approximately 6 a.m. on the Trans Arunachal Highway close to Tapi village. The Army truck involved in the accident was part of a convoy transporting troops from Daporijo, the district headquarters of Upper Subansiri, to Basar in the neighboring Leparada district. According to police officials, the truck skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge.

The victims have been named as Havildar Nakhat Singh, Naik Mukesh Kumar, and Grenadier Ashish Kumar. Following the accident, local residents swiftly reached the scene to assist in the rescue operations, helping to recover the bodies of the deceased and provide aid to the injured. The Army’s Eastern Command expressed their grief over the loss, stating in a post on X (formerly Twitter), “Lt Gen RC Tiwari, #ArmyCdrEC & All Ranks express deepest condolences the tragic loss of our brave soldiers Havildar Nakhat Singh, Naik Mukesh Kumar, and Grenadier Ashish Kumar, who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in #ArunachalPradesh. The Indian Army stands firmly with the bereaved families.”

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu also conveyed his condolences. In a message on X, he said, “I am deeply pained by the loss of lives of three @adgpi personnel – Havildar Nakhat Singh, Naik Mukesh Kumar, and Grenadier Ashish Kumar – in a heartbreaking accident near Tapi in Upper Subansiri district. Their dedication to the nation and ultimate sacrifice will be honored with the deepest respect.” He continued, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families.” I pray to Lord Buddha for the peace of the brave souls. Om Mani Padme Hum.”

This accident is reminiscent of a similar tragedy earlier this year. In May, a bus carrying 75 passengers skidded off the road and plunged about 150 feet down a gorge in Jammu district, resulting in 22 fatalities and 57 injuries. Such incidents highlight the perilous conditions often faced on mountainous roads in the region.