On the morning of July 5, 2025, a serious accident disrupted the fourth batch of pilgrims joining the Amarnath Yatra 2025. At around 8 a.m. near Chanderkote on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Ramban district, five buses in a Pahalgam-bound convoy collided—36 pilgrims sustained primarily minor injuries and were rushed for treatment.
What Happened: Accident Details
- The convoy had halted at the Chanderkote langar (breakfast) stop when the last bus reportedly experienced brake failure, crashing into the four stationary buses ahead.
- Ramban SSP Kulbir Singh described it as a chain reaction crash triggered by the tail bus’s brake malfunction.
- According to Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Alyas Khan, the bus from Madhya Pradesh lost control, colliding with four buses at the langar site.
Who Was Affected
The injured, a mix of men, women, children, and sadhus, received first-aid and minor treatment at Ramban District Hospital. Most were discharged and transferred onto replacement vehicles, enabling them to continue their pilgrimage. However, officials noted that 3–4 pilgrims with more significant injuries might not be able to resume the journey.
Context: The Yatra in Full Swing
- The fourth batch of 6,979 pilgrims—comprising 5,196 men, 1,427 women, 24 children, 331 sadhus/sadhvis, and one transgender pilgrim—had departed Bhagwati Nagar around 3:30–4:05 a.m.
- Of these, 4,226 pilgrims were on the Pahalgam route (48 km), and 2,753 opted for the Baltal route (14 km)—a steeper trek.
- This year’s Yatra began on July 3, flagged off amid tight security by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Immediate Response & Aftermath
Swift Rescue Operations
- Local police, district administration, and medical staff were already stationed at the halted convoy, leading to prompt rescue efforts.
- The injured were rapidly transported to Ramban District Hospital, where senior officials ensured proper treatment and monitoring.
- Officials replaced the damaged buses quickly, resuming normal convoy operations.
Officials' Statements
- SSP Kulbir Singh confirmed that most injuries were minor and the pilgrims were keen to continue.
- Deputy Commissioner Khan emphasized the official presence at the site and praised the swift action taken to treat and transport victims.
- Emergency response included replacing vehicles and ensuring the Yatra convoy resumed with minimal delay.
Broader Safety Measures During Amarnath Yatra 2025
Increased Security Protocols
- In the wake of a terror attack in April near Pahalgam that claimed 25 lives, security along the Yatra routes was significantly elevated.
- Operation Sindoor was launched to target terror networks nationwide.
- Thousands of security personnel were deployed.
- RFID-based identification and e-tracking of pilgrims and vehicles were implemented.
Logistical & Infrastructure Upgrades
- Over 3.5 lakh pilgrims pre-registered for this year’s Yatra.
- Medical facilities, Yatri Niwas, base camps, and transport were reinforced in Jammu and along trekking routes.
- Regular vehicle and route inspections aimed at ensuring safety on the treacherous mountainous roads.
FAQ Section
1. What date did the accident occur?
It occurred on July 5, 2025, at around 8 a.m., near Chanderkote in Ramban district.
2. How many buses were involved?
A total of five buses in a Pahalgam-bound convoy collided.
3. How many pilgrims were injured?
36 pilgrims were injured, mostly with minor injuries. Only a few had significant injuries.
4. Was the accident due to brake failure?
Yes. Preliminary reports indicate that brake failure in the last bus caused the crash.
5. Where were the injured treated?
They were treated at Ramban District Hospital, given first aid, and most were discharged the same day.
6. Did all injured continue the Yatra?
Most of them continued after getting treated. However, 3–4 seriously injured pilgrims stayed back for further care.
7. How many pilgrims were traveling in the fourth batch?
This batch had 6,979 pilgrims, including men, women, children, sadhus, and one transgender pilgrim.
8. Who flagged off the Yatra this year?
The pilgrimage was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on July 3, 2025.
9. What safety measures are in place for 2025 Yatra?
High security deployment, RFID tracking, vehicle inspections, emergency teams, and route monitoring systems are in place.
10. How has the administration responded?
The administration responded quickly, with immediate rescue, treatment, and vehicle replacements, ensuring the Yatra resumed smoothly.
Analysis: What This Incident Signifies
Infrastructure & Terrain Challenges
This accident shows the dangers of mountain roads where a small failure can lead to mass injuries due to narrow paths and steep drops.
The Importance of Vehicle Maintenance
It stresses that all Yatra buses should be checked for mechanical safety, especially brakes, before starting.
Effectiveness of Emergency Protocols
The fast and coordinated action proves how critical it is to have officials and doctors present along the route.
Looking Forward: Recommendations & Precautions
- Mandatory vehicle inspections before each convoy departs.
- Training bus drivers in emergency response and mountain driving.
- Improved surveillance and on-site medical readiness at every stoppage.
- Real-time convoy monitoring via GPS/RFID for fast-tracking incident responses.
- Mental health and counseling support for pilgrims affected by accidents.
Historical Context: Earlier Amarnath Tragedies
- 1996 snowfall claimed 250+ pilgrims.
- 2000 Pahalgam massacre killed 21 pilgrims and others.
- 2017 bus attack near Baltal claimed 7 lives and injured 32.
While those were terror-related, accidents like the July 5 crash stress the need for ongoing safety upgrades.
Final Thoughts
The July 5, 2025 Ramban recap underlines both the spiritual significance of the Amarnath Yatra and the practical safety challenges of mass pilgrimages in fragile terrain. The swift emergency response and the administration’s continued drive to strengthen infrastructure are reassuring, but constant vigilance is essential for pilgrims’ safety.
Report by Toofan Express