In Jammu and Kashmir, at least three people have lost their lives and over a dozen others sustained critical injuries in a tragic road accident involving a private tempo near Bhart village, located around 25 km from Doda town. The accident occurred in the Ponda area along the Doda-Barath road today, after a tempo traveller skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge. The vehicle was carrying several passengers at the time of the accident. Rescue operations were immediately launched by local police and volunteers, with authorities rushing to the scene to assist in retrieving the victims and providing emergency medical aid. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that any further assistance required will be promptly arranged. A rescue operation is going on, while authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. Further details are awaited.