M S Nazki
Jammu, May 25(GNS): Four members of a Bakerwal family died after a tree fell on their makeshift tent in Bahlna forests in Kishtwar district last night, officials said on Thursday.
They said that the tree fell amid gusty winds and heavy rain fall in the area around midnight.
The deceased have been identified as Nazir Ahmed (55), his wife Anwar Begum (42), Shama Begum(26) wife of Shoket Ahmed and Shakeel Banoo (17), all residents of district Kathua
Confirming it, Station House Officer Kishtwar Abid Bukhari said that a case has been registered in connection with the incident.
The family was going towards Dachan with its sheep and goats, and had halted in Bhalna forest due to heavy rains, they said.
Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, Devansh Yadav said four people, including three women, died on the spot.
“A police team immediately rushed to the spot and started a rescue operation,” Yadav said. The bodies were later taken to a hospital for legal formalities and handed over to the relatives for last rites.
An immediate relief of Rs 50,000 was provided to the family from the Red Cross Society, the Deputy Commissioner said.
“The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, has expressed grief over the loss of lives due to unfortunate incident in Kishtwar,” reads an official statement.
“Deeply anguished by the loss of lives in a tragic incident in Kishtwar. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones,” the Lt Governor said.
The Lt Governor has directed the Deputy Commissioner to provide all assistance to next of kin of deceased. (GNS)
