SRINAGAR: As guns fell silent after four days of death and destruction, people in Uri celebrated the India–Pakistan ceasefire.
According to reports, displaced people are heading back to their homes, and shops have also reopened in Uri, one of the most affected areas by artillery shelling amid hostilities between India and Pakistan.
Lal Hussain Koli, a resident, said that it was a great day for the people because both countries agreed to a ceasefire. “Hostilities between India and Pakistan mean suffering for us, and the last four days showed 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 the fresh India–Pakistan shelling.”
He appealed to both countries to ensure a “full-time ceasefire” so that people living along the LoC can live without fear.
Pertinently, a woman was killed and 19 others injured in the shelling. At least 400 structures, including eight shops, two masjids, and eight vehicles, were fully or partially damaged. Thousands of people migrated from their homes to safer places amid the hostilities.
Farooq Ahmed, another resident, told GNS that the people of Uri felt great happiness as soon as India and Pakistan agreed to the ceasefire. “Shelling badly affects us. Our properties have been damaged, and people had to leave their homes, which is extremely distressing,” he said.
Meanwhile, MLA Uri Dr Sajjad Shafi remained continuously in Uri and monitored the situation. He himself oversaw the facilities being provided to the 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, seven UXOs have been disposed of in Kamalkote, Madhan, Gowhallan, Salamabad, Bijhama, Gangerhill, and Gawalta.
Following their safe disposal, the district administration has permitted people from these six villages to return home.
There may still be other UXOs in these villages that have not yet been reported to or come to the notice of the security forces.
For the safety and wellbeing of all citizens, the following mandatory precautions are advised: “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. Unauthorised 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)
