In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead, tensions have flared along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir.
Villagers in Poonch, Rajouri, and several parts of northern Kashmir, including Uri, Keran, Tangdhar, and Gurez have begun cleaning and maintaining underground bunkers that had been abandoned for years.
A resident of Poonch told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the people had forgotten the bunkers but are being cleaned again now for safety as there is an atmosphere of fear, but “we hope harmony will prevail in the valley.”
“We are with the government, we stand by them. We strongly condemn the terror attack and we are in support of our army and administration. Whenever they need us, we are ready to provide any possible support, even lay down our lives,” another resident from Pir Panjal range said.
In addition to the increased preparations on the ground, the situation on the border has been tense, with Pakistan Army posts engaging in unprovoked firing across multiple locations along the LoC on the night of April 25-26.
Officials said that Indian troops responded with small arms fire to neutralize the provocation. There were no reported casualties on the Indian side, but the exchange of fire reflects ongoing cross-border tensions in the region.
“A potential breakdown of the ceasefire agreement is unfortunate for border residents like us. We are the ones who bear the brunt of shelling, losing our homes, livelihoods, and sometimes our loved ones,” said Ajaz Ahmad, another resident.
Saleem Khan, a resident of Karnah, said the recent discussions over cross-border firing have created fear among people living along the LoC. “We have lived in peace for four years, but now uncertainty looms over our lives once again,” he added.
An official said that the Indian Army is closely monitoring the situation across all forward areas, with officials viewing these actions as attempts to destabilize the region.
The fire exchange was limited, but the local population remains alert, with many reiterating their support for the Indian military, he said—(KNO)
