Five Indian Army soldiers, including a junior commissioned officer, are feared dead after their T-72 tank sank due to flash floods in the Shyok River near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Nyoma-Chushul area of Ladakh early Saturday, officials reported.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his sorrow over the tragic incident, which occurred near Mandir Morh, approximately 148 km from Leh, around 1 am during a military exercise.
"On the night of June 28, 2024, while de-inducting from a military training activity, an Army tank became stuck in the Shyok River near Saser Brangsa, eastern Ladakh, due to a sudden increase in water level. Rescue teams were dispatched immediately; however, due to the high current and water levels, the rescue mission was unsuccessful, resulting in the loss of the tank crew," a Leh-based Army PRO stated.
"The Indian Army regrets the loss of five brave personnel while being operationally deployed in eastern Ladakh. Rescue operations are ongoing," the statement added.
Defence Minister Singh took to X to express his condolences: "Deeply saddened at the loss of lives of five of our brave Indian Army soldiers in an unfortunate accident while getting the tank across a river in Ladakh. We will never forget the exemplary service of our gallant soldiers to the nation. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The nation stands firm with them during this hour of grief."
Following the mishap, a rescue operation was immediately launched, and all five bodies were recovered, as confirmed by defense officials. All five bodies have been recovered, Army PRO said.
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