In Jammu and Kashmir, a bus carrying pilgrims plunged into a deep gorge in Reasi district of Jammu division today after suspected terrorists opened fire on the bus. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that 10 people died and 33 others were injured as a bus rolls down a gorge in Teryath area of Reasi district. The bus, carrying pilgrims on their way to the Shiv Khori temple, came under attack in Teryath village in Poni area. SSP Reasi, Mohita Sharma said a group of terrorists attacked the yatri bus coming from Ransoo area of district Reasi. Due to the attack, a bullet hit the driver of the bus after which he lost the control and the bus plunged into a deep gorge near Kanda area of Pouni in Reasi district resulting in the casualties of 10 Yatris and injuries to 33 other pilgrims.
Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Vishesh Mahajan also confirmed the casualties. A rescue operation was launched and reinforcements from police, army and paramilitary forces rushed to the spot and injured have been shifted to nearby hospitals. The area has been cordoned off and a search operation has been launched. All the Yatris onboard the bus were non-J&K residents, they seemed to be pilgrims from UP, had come to Shiv Kohri shrine. Prima facie it looks like terrorists were waiting for the bus and attacked it on the highway. The driver of the bus was hit by a bullet after which the bus rolled down into the gorge. However, the identities of the slain and injured are being ascertained. More details are awaited.
Disclaimer: This press release is sourced from News On AIR, Prasar Bharti and Press Information Bureau India (PIB).