Evacuations Underway in Jammu Border Districts as Shelling Continues; Abdullah Visits Relief Camps

Amid ongoing cross-border shelling, evacuations are underway in at least five districts of the Jammu region near the Pakistan border. The violence has resulted in 18 fatalities and nearly 60 injuries on this side. Thousands have been relocated to relief camps for safety. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, and Minister Satish Sharma visited these camps in Jammu, Rajouri, and Samba to ensure proper arrangements and offer reassurance to displaced families.

Eight to ten thousand residents from the Rajouri-Poonch area have been moved to safer locations. Sharma confirmed that food and medical services are being provided at these camps. The shelling is a response to Indian missile strikes on nine sites in Pakistan and PoK, following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists.

Relief Efforts Amidst Continued Shelling

Pakistan has been persistently firing shells across the Line of Control and International Border. This has caused damage in areas such as Poonch, Mankote, Mendhar, Nowshera, Akhnoor, R S Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Kathua. Abdullah also visited relief centres in Mishriwala, Nagbani, Bishnah, and Thandi Khui. He urged officials to remain vigilant and responsive during this crisis.

Evacuations are taking place for those living along the Line of Control in regions like Poonch, Mankote, Mendhar, Nowshera, Laam, Balakote, Sunderbani, Akhnoor. Similarly, along the International Border in Garkhal-Khour, Marh, R S Pura, Arnia, Samba, Hiranagar, and Kathua are also being evacuated according to officials.

Leadership Visits Provide Reassurance

During the evacuation process, Choudhary stated that "Pakistan won't be able to break the spirit of Indians." This sentiment was echoed by Abdullah who condemned Pakistan's aggressive actions. He asserted that "India reserves the right to defend its people and territory with full strength."

The situation remains tense as authorities continue their efforts to safeguard civilians from further harm. The focus is on providing essential services and ensuring the safety of those affected by the conflict.

With inputs from PTI