18 Amarnath pilgrims injured in multi-vehicle collision on Jammu-Srinagar Highway

At least 18 Amarnath Yatra pilgrims sustained minor injuries after a multi-vehicle collision involving buses and a car on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district.

According to officials, the accident took place at Langar Point in the Chanderkote area when two Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) buses, part of a convoy heading towards the Pahalgam base camp, collided on the busy highway. The impact caused one of the buses to ram into a nearby car, which was then pushed into a private bus ahead, triggering a chain collision.

Rescue teams and local authorities quickly reached the spot and shifted all the injured pilgrims to District Hospital Ramban. Hospital officials said all 18 passengers suffered minor injuries and are in stable condition. They are being kept under observation as a precaution.

Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that heavy convoy movement, traffic congestion and inadequate spacing between vehicles may have contributed to the collision, although authorities are also examining possible mechanical issues and driver coordination.

The administration said it will review traffic management measures along the Ramban stretch of the highway, considered one of the busiest and most accident-prone sections during the annual Amarnath Yatra. The pilgrimage has witnessed a heavy influx of devotees this year, prompting authorities to strengthen safety arrangements along the route.