The Indian Army vehicle that was struck by a falling boulder. (Photo via X)
Udhampur/New Delhi: Two Indian Army personnel were killed and three others injured when a loose boulder struck their vehicle in eastern Ladakh on Wednesday morning. Among the injured, two are said to be in critical condition.
This rare kind of incident highlights the treacherous conditions faced by troops deployed along the country’s sensitive northern borders.
The accident occurred around 11.30am as the military convoy travelled from Durbuk to Chongtash in the strategically important Galwan area, approximately 200 kilometres from Leh – the Union territory’s administrative capital. A massive boulder dislodged from a cliff struck one of the vehicles at Charbagh near Durbuk, completely destroying the Army SUV.
The casualties
Lieutenant Colonel Bhanu Pratap Singh Mankotia and Lance Dafadar Daljit Singh, both from the 14 Horse (Scinde Horse) regiment, died from their injuries despite immediate rescue efforts. Three other officers were evacuated to the Army hospital in Leh for treatment.
Lt Col Bhanu Pratap Mankotia (L) and L/Dfdr Daljit Singh.
Mankotia was a distinguished officer with an exceptional service record. A gold medallist from the National Defence Academy and recipient of the Sword of Honour from the Indian Military Academy, he was declared the best student during his Defence Services Staff College course. He had previously served as a divisional officer at the National Defence Academy.
The 14 Horse, established in 1839, is one of the Army’s most prestigious armoured regiments. Known traditionally as the Scinde Horse, it holds the unique distinction of being the only regiment that honours its enemy on its badge while maintaining its original insignia.
Injured receiving treatment
Major Mayank Shubham, also from the 14 Sindh Horse, and Major Amit Dixit from 60 Armoured Regiment, also known as the “Panthers” and equipped with T-90 tanks, are receiving treatment at the 153 General Hospital in Leh. Captain Gaurav, also from the 60 Armoured Regiment, is also undergoing medical care. According to some sources, which India Sentinels cannot independently verify at the time of publication of this report, another officer succumbed to his injuries sustained in the incident.
The 60 Armoured Regiment is a relatively new formation, which was raised in 2019 at Ahmednagar as part of the Army’s modernization efforts along the northern borders.
Strategic significance
The accident occurred in one of India’s most strategically sensitive regions. Durbuk serves as a crucial waypoint between the Indus valley, Shyok valley, and Pangong lake region. The site of the incident is at approximately 12,500 feet above sea level and 120 kilometres from Leh.
Very sad news
— Flying Lancer Полковник Раджен Bhaduri (@LancerFlying) July 30, 2025
Accident
Ladakh
Boulder fell on Veh
Dvr - Likey fatal
Lt Col Mankotia SH - was critical(now no more)
Maj Amitesh Dixit 60AR - Leg and hand fractured (died)
Rest two Offrs are under treatment
All from Armoured Corps pic.twitter.com/i4C9My525s
The Galwan area gained prominence during the 2020 border standoff between Indian and Chinese forces, when it became a flashpoint in bilateral tensions. The valley’s strategic importance stems from its location along the line of actual control (LAC) with China and its role in providing access routes for military operations.
The convoy was on a routine training movement when the accident occurred. The harsh terrain of eastern Ladakh, characterized by steep cliffs, unstable rock formations, and extreme weather conditions, poses constant challenges for military operations. Temperatures in the region can plummet to –20°C as early as October.
Command response
Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, commander of the Northern Army Command, along with all ranks paid tribute to the fallen soldiers.
The Fire and Fury Corps (XIV Corps), responsible for guarding India’s frontiers with both China and Pakistan in the Ladakh sector, also issued tributes. The corps maintains constant vigilance along both the line of control (LoC) with Pakistan and the LAC.
The Northern Command, headquartered in Udhampur, has extended full support to the bereaved families. Recovery operations were launched immediately following the accident, ensuring prompt medical attention for the injured personnel.
The incident highlights the inherent dangers faced by Army personnel deployed in high-altitude areas along sensitive borders. The treacherous terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and geological instability create constant hazards for military convoys.
Recent months have seen increased military activities in the region, with the Fire and Fury Corps conducting integrated firing exercises and maintaining high operational readiness amid ongoing border tensions.
