Daijiworld Media Network - Leh

Leh, Jul 30: A tragic accident in the high-altitude terrain of Ladakh claimed the lives of a Lieutenant Colonel and a jawan on Wednesday, when a boulder crashed onto an Army convoy vehicle near Durbuk in Leh district. Three other Army officers sustained injuries in the incident.

The mishap occurred around 11:30 a.m. while the convoy was en route from Durbuk to Chongtash, officials confirmed.

“An unexpected boulder hit one of the vehicles in the convoy, leading to the deaths of Lt Colonel Bhanu Pratap Singh and Lance Dafadar Daljeet Singh,” an official source stated. “Major Mayank Shubham, Major Amit Dixit, and Captain Gaurav were injured and have been shifted to the Army hospital in Leh for treatment.”

Despite Ladakh’s relatively dry climate, which typically reduces risks of landslides or rolling stones, the region's rugged mountainous terrain poses unpredictable hazards. Such incidents, though rare, highlight the risks faced by troops operating in remote and volatile environments.

The Srinagar-Leh highway—particularly the Baltal to Drass stretch near Zojila Pass—is considered among the riskiest routes due to extreme weather and terrain. This pass often remains closed for over four months due to heavy snowfall.

To address these challenges, a tunnel is currently under construction across Zojila Pass. Once completed, it will allow for all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Leh, significantly improving safety and mobility in the region.

Authorities have extended condolences to the bereaved families and are closely monitoring the condition of the injured officers.