KATHUA, J&K — A journey of faith turned into a scene of terror on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 when a minibus packed with devotees skidded off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. The horrific accident left at least 23 pilgrims injured, with two currently fighting for their lives in critical condition.

The victims—hailing from the Goran and Sumb villages of the neighboring Samba district—were traveling to the revered Mata Sukrala Devi Temple in Billawar when the tragedy unfolded.

According to official reports, the minibus (registration number JK21B 7776) was navigating the Dhar Road when the driver reportedly lost control of the steering wheel near the Dingi Simbli area.

After plunging from the tarmac, the vehicle rolled uncontrollably down the steep slope, coming to a rest at the bottom of the deep ravine. Trapped inside, the passengers' desperate cries for help quickly drew local residents, who rushed into the gorge to begin a frantic rescue effort before first responders could reach the scene.

A joint rescue mission was quickly established as teams from the local police and civil administration joined hands with community volunteers. Working under challenging terrain conditions, rescuers managed to extricate all 23 passengers from the mangled remains of the minibus.

All injured individuals were swiftly evacuated and shifted to a nearby hospital for immediate medical intervention.

While the majority of the passengers are being treated for fractures, cuts, and shock, hospital officials confirmed that the condition of the two critically injured devotees is being closely monitored by a specialized team of doctors.

Local police have taken formal cognizance of the incident and have initiated an active investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Investigators are currently looking into whether the accident was a result of a mechanical failure, excessive speed, or an error in judgment while navigating the narrow, winding stretch of the Dhar Road.