16 Army personnel killed in Sikkim Truck Accident after vehicle plunges into gorge

According to a statement from the army, the army truck that the soldiers were riding in fell down a gorge in Sikkim on Friday, killing sixteen soldiers, including three officials.
According to the army, the truck was a part of a convoy of three vehicles that had departed Chatten in the morning towards Thangu.

“While travelling to Zema, the car made a sudden curve and skidded down a steep slope. An emergency rescue effort was initiated, and four injured soldiers have been airlifted to safety “stated the Army.

The Army further stated that it is supporting the grieving families at this difficult time.

Four soldiers who were injured in the mishap were airlifted to the nearest medical facility.  Meantime, Defence minister Rajnath Singh expressed grief following the loss of the lives of the soldiers and offered condolences to the bereaved families.  Taking to Micro-blogging site “Twitter” he wrote “Deeply pained by the loss of lives of the Indian Army personnel due to a road accident in North Sikkim. The nation is deeply grateful for their service and commitment. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of those who are injured,”