Woman Died, 19 People Injured; Nearly 400 Structures Were Damaged In LoC Skirmishes

Baramulla, May 12 : As guns fell silent after four days of death and destruction, People in Uri celebrate India-Pakistan ceasefire.

According to reports, displaced people are heading towards their homes, shops were also reopened in Uri, one of the most affected areas of artillery shelling amid hostilities between India and Pakistan.

Lal Hussain Koli, a local resident, told GNS that it was a great day for people because both the countries agreed for a ceasefire. “Hostilities between India and Pakistan mean suffering for us and four days saw how much it costs in terms of life and property,” he said, adding, “Our people were killed and injured while dozens of houses were destroyed due to fresh India-Pakistan shelling.”

He appealed to both countries to ensure a “fulltime ceasefire” so that people living on LoC can live without fear.

Pertinently, a woman was killed and 19 other people injured in shelling. At least 400 structures including 8 shops, 2 masjids besides 8 vehicles were fully or partially damaged. Thousands of people migrated from homes to safer places amid hostilities.

Farooq Ahmed, another resident, told GNS that the people of Uri felt great happiness as soon as India-Pakistan agreed to the ceasefire. “Shelling badly affects us. Our properties have been damaged and people had to leave their homes and homes which is extremely distressing,” he said.

Meanwhile, MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi remained continuously in Uri and monitored the situation. He himself saw facilities being provided to people of Uri. He urged people not to return home until all unexploded shells are defused by the bomb disposal squads.

Meanwhile Baramulla Police informed that about 20 unexploded ordnances (UXOs) have been found in 17 villages across the district.

Out of these, police said, 7 UXOs have been disposed off in Kamalkote, Madhan, Gowhallan, Salamabad, Bijhama Gangerhill and Gawalta.

Consequent to their safe disposal, district administration has permitted people from these six villages to return home.

There still might be other UXOs in these villages that have not been reported to/ come to notice of security forces.

For the safety and wellbeing of all citizens, all are advised to observe the following mandatory precautions: “Do NOT under any circumstances approach, touch, tamper with, or attempt to move any suspicious object resembling an explosive shell or device.”

Police have asked people to immediately report any such object or suspicious item to Baramulla Police via the contact numbers.

“Strictly avoid the vicinity of any area where such objects are observed or reported. Unauthorized access to such zones is prohibited for your safety.”

UXOs are unstable and highly dangerous. Mishandling may lead to fatal consequences or irreversible injuries, police underlined.

“We urge every citizen to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and share this advisory widely within your communities.” (GNS)