Zema: At least sixteen Indian Army personnel lost their lives in a tragic road accident when the truck in which they were traveling skidded down a steep slope while negotiating a sharp turn at Zema of North Sikkim on Friday.

The ill-fated vehicle was part of a three-vehicle convoy that had moved from Chatten in the morning towards Thangu.

Enroute at Zema, the vehicle skidded down a steep slope while negotiating a sharp turn, officials said.

A rescue mission was immediately launched, and four injured soldiers were air evacuated. Unfortunately, three Junior Commissioned Officers and 13 soldiers succumbed to the injuries sustained in the accident.

"Deeply pained by the loss of lives of the Indian Army personnel due to a road accident in North Sikkim. The nation is deeply grateful for their service and commitment. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of those who are injured," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said in a tweet.

(With UNI inputs)