Asif Iqbal Naik
Kishtwar, Dec 6: In a heartbreaking incident, four members of a family lost their lives after their vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in the Sarthal area of Kishtwar district. The tragic accident, which occurred while the family was returning from the revered Sarthal Devi Temple — nearly 30 km from the district headquarters — was captured live by an eyewitness present at the spot.
The Sarthal Devi Temple, one of the most prominent and spiritually significant shrines of Chenab Valley, attracts thousands of devotees every year. Dedicated to Goddess Ashtadash Buja (18-armed deity), the temple is known for its ancient heritage, serene surroundings, and the annual Sarthal Yatra that draws pilgrims from across Jammu and Kashmir. Located on a hilltop, the temple offers a breathtaking view of the valley but also requires travel on steep, narrow roads that have long posed challenges for commuters.
Officials said the deceased have been identified as Jyoti Devi, wife of Ranjeet Singh; Ranjeet Singh, son of Puran Singh, residents of Dessa Doda; their 7-month-old daughter; and 21-year-old Simran, daughter of Ranjeet Singh’s brother. According to sources, three of the victims died on the spot, while Jyoti Devi succumbed to her injuries on the way to District Hospital Kishtwar.
Tragically, the family had traveled in two vehicles. Ranjeet Singh’s 3-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter, who were in the other vehicle, survived the accident.
Meanwhile an eyewitness has captured the video of the accident in his mobile and the vehicle can be seen rolling down into several hundred deep gorge that resulted into fatalities.
Police have registered a case and started an investigation into the cause of the crash.
The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the persistent dangers of the deadly Chenab Valley roads, where hundreds lose their lives every year due to poor road conditions, lack of crash barriers, harsh terrain, and risky driving stretches.
