11 killed, 2 injured as passenger van plunges into river in GB's Ghizer

Eleven individuals lost their lives and two others sustained injuries when a passenger van tragically fell into the Yasin river in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghizer district on Thursday evening. The accident occurred when the vehicle, en route to Ghizer’s Yasin Valley from Gilgit, lost control near Morkah Bridge, causing it to plunge into the river.

Local police confirmed that 10 bodies were recovered, including those of two women, along with three injured passengers, one of whom was a child who was promptly taken to Gupis Civil Hospital for medical attention. A subsequent statement from the GB Chief Minister Secretariat revealed that an infant among the deceased, and two individuals among the injured.

The deceased and injured were residents of Yasin Valley, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives, GB Chief Minister Amjad Hussain directed the district administration, rescue agencies, and health department officials to ensure the injured are swiftly transported to nearby hospitals with the best possible medical care.

Hussain also emphasized that no negligence should be tolerated during rescue operations, and the medical treatment and well-being of the injured must be meticulously monitored. Condolences and sympathies were extended to the bereaved families, with Hussain praying for eternal peace for the deceased and strength to their families during their loss, while hoping for a speedy recovery for the injured.