Soldier Vipin Kumar Faces Irreparable Loss in Bilaspur Landslide Tragedy: Ex-Servicemen Stand United with Grieving Family. 

Shimla:

The devastating aftermath of this year’s monsoon continues to leave deep scars across Himachal Pradesh, and among the most heart-wrenching stories is that of Lance Dafadar Vipin Kumar, a serving soldier of the 4 Horse Battalion of the Armoured Regiment, presently posted in Jammu & Kashmir. Vipin Kumar suffered an unimaginable loss when a massive landslide struck a private bus near Barthi in Bilaspur district on October 7, claiming the lives of four of his close family members.

According to a statement issued by the Chairman of the United Front of Ex-Servicemen (JCOs & OR), Himachal Pradesh, the 34-year veteran soldier lost his wife, Anju (31), his sons Nakash (7) and Arab (4), and his sister-in-law Kamlesh in the tragic incident.

A team of ex-servicemen led by Capt Jagdish visited Vipin Kumar’s ancestral home in village Fagog, located about five kilometers from Barthi, to express solidarity and offer condolences. “Lance Dafadar Vipin Kumar’s loss is beyond words. Losing four family members in a single day is a devastating blow for any human being, yet he continues to show immense strength and composure,” Capt Jagdish said.

He added that the ex-servicemen fraternity stands firmly beside the soldier in this time of grief. Among those present during the condolence visit were Rishaldar Ramanand, Capt Nanak Chand, Sub Major Kulwant Singh Patiyal, Subedar Tulsi Ram, Capt Ranjit Singh, and several others. The group prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls and strength for the bereaved family to endure this irreparable loss.

Speaking on the occasion, Capt Verma highlighted the poor condition of roads in and around Barthi, emphasizing that preventive maintenance and timely inspections are essential to avert such tragic incidents in the future. He urged the Administration and PWD departments to take proactive measures to identify vulnerable areas and implement safety precautions to prevent further loss of life.

The landslide tragedy that struck near Barthi is one among several incidents this monsoon season that have underscored the urgent need for improved road safety and disaster management in hilly regions.