BUDGAM, CENTRAL KASHMIR — A wave of grief hit the Chadoora area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Friday, June 12, 2026 after a school bus met with a fatal accident, leaving the driver dead and two young students injured.

According to official sources and local authorities, the bus, which belongs to the IPTS School Khansahib, was navigating the mountainous terrain when the driver lost control of the steering wheel. The vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge in the remote Neegu Jabbad area of Brenwar, Chadoora.

The impact of the crash was severe. Local residents from the nearby villages were the first to respond, rushing to the steep slope to initiate rescue efforts before being quickly joined by police personnel and emergency medical teams.

Tragically, the driver of the school bus succumbed to the impact of the crash and died on the spot. Two onboard students who sustained injuries in the plunge were successfully extricated from the wreckage. First responders stabilized the children at the scene before swiftly evacuating them to the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Chadoora for urgent medical evaluation and treatment.

Authorities have confirmed that a formal case has been registered to investigate the exact cause of the accident. "Local police have taken cognizance of the tragic incident," an official statement read. "While the two injured students are receiving medical attention, procedures are underway to formally ascertain the identity of the deceased driver. A full investigation into the mechanical state of the vehicle and the road conditions at the time of the crash has been initiated."

Road safety in the high-altitude, winding passes of the region remains a critical focus for local administration, as sharp curves and shifting terrain frequently present severe challenges for transport vehicles.