Donot touch unexploded shells, inform Army, Defence spokesman

Srinagar, Aug 12 (UNI) Defence authorities in Kashmir valley have issued a warning to civilians of the area, affected by ammunition depot fire at Khandroo, not to enter their villages or touch any unexploded shells.

They said the Army Control Centre, set up at Khandroo, should be informed on mobile number 9906737261 or the nearest Army unit or police station about any suspicious object.

He said civilian population of these affected village are also requested not to enter their villages without obtaining clearance from the Army authorities.

''We have information that a number of shells had remained unexploded,'' he said the move to stop civilians from entering their villages was taken keeping in view their security.

Thousands of bombs, rocket and other explosives exploded after fire in the Khandroo ammunition depot.

Villagers said scores of explosive devices remained unexploded in the paddy and other fields and compounds of houses and roads in the villages adjacent to the depot.

The spokesman said due to concerted efforts of the civil administration, police and the Army, situation has been controlled to a very large extent.

However, sporadic blasts continue from the ammunition debris.

UNI