Srinagar, May 12: Authorities have permitted residents of six villages in the Uri sector of Baramulla district to return to their homes following the successful clearance of unexploded shells left behind after recent cross-border shelling.
According to police, around 20 unexploded ordnance (UXOs) were reported across 17 different locations in the district. In a clearance operation, seven UXOs were located and safely neutralized in the villages of Kamalkote, Madhan, Gowhallan, Salamabad (Bijhama), Gangerhill, and Gawalta.
Following this operation, district officials gave the go-ahead for residents of these areas to safely return. However, authorities cautioned that other unexploded devices may still be present and undetected.
“These unexploded shells are a severe threat to life and property. Everyone is strongly urged to follow all necessary safety precautions,” police stated.
Residents were warned not to approach, handle, disturb, or attempt to move any suspicious object that may resemble an explosive device. Instead, they were asked to report such findings immediately to the police or the nearest security personnel.
The advisory further emphasized avoiding any area where suspicious objects are sighted or reported. “Unauthorized entry into such zones is strictly forbidden for public safety,” police said, stressing the unstable and hazardous nature of UXOs.
“Mishandling these devices can result in fatal injuries or permanent damage,” they added.
Previously, on Sunday, as border residents began returning after the India-Pakistan ceasefire, Jammu and Kashmir Police had issued a warning advising against reentry into these villages due to the presence of potentially dangerous unexploded ordnance.
