Bandipora, May 9: Tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) have escalated in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, prompting mass evacuations from Gurez Valley in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district. As fears of cross-border shelling mount, authorities have initiated the evacuation of residents from forward areas.
According to local sources, over 40 to 50 vehicles carrying families have already left the valley following orders from the administration. The exodus comes amid growing concern over the lack of adequate safety infrastructure in the region.
Videos accessed by this reporter reveal that, in the absence of proper underground bunkers, some residents have begun clearing roadside culverts to use as makeshift shelters. Others are pooling community resources to construct temporary bunkers in a bid to protect themselves from potential shelling.
Raja Ajaz Khan, a resident of the remote Tulail Valley, voiced the widespread anxiety. “Tulail doesn’t have enough bunkers to keep people safe in case of shelling,” he said. Khan appealed to the government to provide immediate support, including essential supplies and temporary shelters, for families now migrating towards Bandipora.
Local officials confirmed the precautionary measures and assured that efforts were being made to ensure the safety of the civilian population. As the situation develops, residents and authorities alike remain on high alert, bracing for further flare-ups along the volatile border.