Ladakh: 5 Army personnel dead after mishap during river crossing tank exercise

Digital Desk: Five Indian Army soldiers, including one Junior Commissioned Officer and four jawans, tragically lost their lives when an Army tank was involved in an accident in the Daulat Beg Oldie area of Ladakh on Friday evening. Defence officials confirmed on Saturday that all five bodies have been recovered.

According to defence officials, the incident occurred during a river crossing exercise involving a T-72 tank, when a sudden increase in water levels led to the mishap.

"There were five soldiers in the tank at the time of the incident, including one Junior Commissioned Officer and four jawans. One person has been located, while the search for the others is ongoing," stated defence officials in their initial report.

Expressing sorrow over the incident, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remarked on Saturday, "Deeply saddened at the loss of lives of five of our brave Indian Army soldiers in an unfortunate accident while crossing a river in Ladakh in a tank. We will never forget the exemplary service of our gallant soldiers to the nation."

He added, "My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The nation stands firm with them during this hour of grief."

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also conveyed his distress, stating, "Deeply distressed at the loss of lives of 5 Indian Army bravehearts, including a JCO, during the tank crossing in Ladakh. Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the Army personnel who fell victim to this painful tragedy."

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu expressed his concern as well, saying, "Deeply disturbed to learn that a T-72 tank with five soldiers has been swept away by flash floods near the Line of Actual Control in the Nyoma-Chusul area of Ladakh. Praying for the safety and well-being of our brave soldiers."

The incident remains under investigation, with further details awaited.