Bandipora: As part of its community outreach efforts, the Indian Army conducted a Khairiyat Patrol in the remote Baktoor Sector near the Line of Control (LoC) in Gurez Valley of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district.
During the patrol, Army personnel visited the homes of local residents and interacted with families to enquire about their well-being and understand the difficulties they may face with the approaching winter season.
Gurez Valley remains cut off from the rest of the region for several months during winter due to heavy snowfall and challenging weather conditions. During this period, residents of remote border villages often face difficulties in accessing essential services, supplies and other basic facilities.
The Army personnel listened to the concerns of residents and assured them of continued assistance and cooperation whenever required. They also conveyed that the Army would remain available to support people living in the remote and difficult terrain, particularly during the harsh winter months.
Speaking during the outreach programme, local residents said such visits provide reassurance to families living in the border areas. They said regular interaction with Army personnel gives them an opportunity to share their concerns and seek assistance when necessary.
Local resident Ghulam Mohideen Lone said, “The Army has maintained regular contact with people living in this remote area. Their visits are especially important before winter, when movement becomes difficult because of heavy snowfall. We appreciate the soldiers for visiting our homes, enquiring about our well-being and listening patiently to the problems faced by residents.”
Another resident, Mohd Sultan, said, “People living in these border areas face several difficulties during the winter months, as roads and passes can remain closed for a long period. The support and presence of the Army gives confidence to local families. We hope such interactions will continue and that residents will receive timely assistance whenever they need it.”
The residents appreciated the Indian Army’s efforts and expressed hope that similar outreach programmes and welfare-oriented patrols would continue in the remote border areas of Gurez.
The Khairiyat Patrol highlights the Army’s continued efforts to maintain contact with communities living in remote and challenging areas along the LoC and to remain aware of their concerns and needs, particularly ahead of the difficult winter season.
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