MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Five more people have succumbed to injuries after a group of friends met with an accident in Khursheedabad Tehsil of Haveli district in Azad Kashmir on Thursday, bringing the tally to seven.
The deceased were returning from the Hilan waterfall on a loader rickshaw when they suddenly lost control and fell into a deep gorge.
Two of them, Idrees and Bilal, died on the spot, while others were shifted to the nearby hospital in critical condition. The injured were taken to DHQ Forward Kahuta from where they were reportedly referred to Rawalakot for further treatment.
Five who succumbed to injuries include Shahzaib, Aqib, Waqar Riaz, Umar, and Faisal.
Following the incident, the district administration has declared two days of mourning in the entire Haveli district on May 29 and 30 on the recommendation of Prime Minister of AJK Faisal Mumtaz Rathore. A notification has been issued in this regard.
According to the notification, the national flags will remain at half-mast on government buildings during the mourning period, while various government functions and public activities will also be restricted.
In a statement issued by the district administration, heartfelt sympathy and condolences have been expressed to the families of those who died in the tragedy. Officials say that steps are being taken to provide all possible assistance and facilities to the affected families.
The tragedy has created an atmosphere of deep sorrow and grief across the region, while political, social, and religious circles are also expressing their condolences. Citizens have prayed for the forgiveness of the deceased and the speedy recovery of the injured.
