At least five passengers were killed and 15 others wounded when a mini-bus met with a tragic accident in hilly Doda district of Jammu region on Friday afternoon.

A police spokesman said the mini-bus was on way to Doda from Bhaderwah, when the driver lost control near a bridge at a village named Seri and plunged into a deep gorge killing five passengers on the spot.

"Soon after receiving the information about the accident, contingent of police personnel rushed to the spot and started rescue operation," the spokesman said.

"The occupants of the vehicle have been evacuated and rushed to the district hospital in Doda. Two critically wounded passengers including a woman were airlifted to Jammu for specialised treatment."

"Thirteen injured persons including eight children in the age group of 3-7 years have been admitted in district hospital Doda and their condition is stated to be stable," a police statement said.