Ladakh accident: Prez Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi express anguish

"Anguished by the bus accident in Ladakh in which we have lost our brave army personnel. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being given to the affected," the Prime Minister said in a tweet.

Expressing grief over the accident, President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted, "Saddened to know that an unfortunate road accident in Ladakh has claimed the lives of some of our brave soldiers. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."

The Indian Army said that a party of 26 soldiers was moving from the Transit Camp in Partapur to a forward location in Sub Sector Hanif. Around 25 km from Thoise, the vehicle skidded off the road and fell in Shyok river to a depth of approx 50-60 ft, resulting in injuries to all occupants.

All the 26 individuals were evacuated to 403 Field Hospital at Partapur and Surgical teams from Leh were moved to Partapur.

Later, seven personnel were declared dead.

There are grievous injuries to others as well and dedicated efforts are underway to ensure that the best medical care is provided to the injured, the Indian Army said.

All the 19 injured were later shifted to the Western Command Hospital, Chandimandir, officials said.