Security Forces Intensify Hunt for Militants in J-K’s Udhampur Amidst Dense Forests

indian army

In a determined pursuit to root out terrorists seeking shelter within the dense foliage of Dudu Basangarh forests, security forces continue their relentless search for the third consecutive day in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir.

Utilizing advanced technology, including unmanned aerial vehicles, the security forces are scouring the area to pinpoint the whereabouts of the terrorists, who are camouflaging themselves amidst the thick vegetation.

ADGP Jammu, Anand Jain, along with senior officers from the CRPF and Indian Army, have personally arrived at the scene to oversee and direct the search operation, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

The primary objective remains the identification and neutralization of two groups of terrorists, totaling six to seven individuals, as confirmed by Jammu & Kashmir Police.

Meanwhile, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) for Udhampur-Reasi range, Rayees Mohd Bhat, emphasized the intensification of intelligence efforts and the ongoing search operation against the terrorists.

“Our search parties are delving deep into the jungles, backed by drone surveillance. We are actively tracking the movements of the infiltrated group while bolstering our intelligence network,” stated DIG Bhat.

Tragically, the encounter on Sunday resulted in the loss of Village Defence Guard Mohammad Shareef, a resident of Lower Ponar, Basantgarh in Udhampur, underscoring the risks faced by those on the frontline against terrorism.

Sarbal Area of Sonamarg Struck by Avalanche in Ganderbal District, No Casualties Reported

In the serene expanse of Sarbal, nestled within the heart of Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, nature unleashed its might as an avalanche descended on Monday. Miraculously, amidst the swirling chaos of snow, there were no casualties or financial losses to lament. The avalanche chose its path wisely, sparing the forested fringes of Sonamarg from its wrath, leaving behind a landscape unscathed, as officials confirm.

In the aftermath, a stirring sight unfolded as Project Beacon, the venerable initiative of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), rallied into action. With meticulous precision, their teams engaged in a valiant snow-clearing endeavor, reminiscent of their longstanding commitment to the region’s infrastructure.

Born in the crucible of the 1960s, Project Beacon stands as a stalwart guardian, entrusted with the monumental task of nurturing and fortifying the vital road network cradling the Kashmir valley. Its domain spans the formidable Zojila Pass, the lifeline binding Drass to the Kashmir valley, among other critical arteries of connectivity.

At the heart of Project Beacon’s mandate lies the relentless pursuit of mobility, ensuring the ceaseless flow of traffic through the rugged terrain of Zojila Pass. Moreover, it shoulders the responsibility of refurbishing the sacred paths of the Amarnath Yatra and the Herculean task of snow clearance, a vital lifeline during the unforgiving winters.

Elsewhere, in a testament to their unwavering commitment, a convoy of 35 stranded vehicles found reprieve atop the frost-kissed heights of Razdan Top along the Bandipora-Gurez road. Battling the tempestuous whims of weather, the indefatigable personnel of BRO orchestrated a daring rescue, emerging as beacons of hope amidst the wintry gloom.

However, the capricious nature of the mountains unveiled its darker visage on April 27, as Pernote village, a tranquil hamlet ensconced merely six kilometers from Ramban town, bore the brunt of relentless landslides. A harrowing tableau of destruction unfolded, with roads rendered impassable, homes ravaged, and power towers felled by the unrelenting fury of nature’s fury.

In the wake of this calamity, the resilient spirit of the affected villagers shone through as they found sanctuary in the embrace of Panchayat Ghar and other makeshift shelters. Stepping up to the challenge, the administration extended a compassionate hand, offering essential medical aid and sustenance to those grappling with the aftermath of nature’s tempestuous outburst.

Late-April Snowfall Transforms Gurez Valley into Winter Wonderland, Disrupts Daily Life

Unexpected late-season snowfall transforms Gurez Valley into a winter wonderland. On April 29th, a picturesque blanket of snow descended upon North Kashmir’s Bandipora district, surprising locals and visitors alike.According to reports from Kashmir Scroll news agency, Gurez Valley, along with Tulail Valley, was draped in a fresh layer of snow, while rain graced the plains of Kashmir, including the bustling summer capital, Srinagar, in the later hours of the afternoon, sending temperatures plummeting.

While the snowfall added a scenic charm to the landscape, it also disrupted daily routines and caused inconvenience to residents. With over a foot of snow accumulating in the valley, schools were forced to close their doors, and essential supplies faced shortages.

In response to the adverse conditions, the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Gurez took precautionary measures by ordering the closure of all schools in the area. Additionally, the Bandipora-Gurez road was shut down until further notice, following the snowfall at Razdhan Top.Despite the challenges posed by the sudden weather shift, efforts are underway to clear the snow and restore safe travel conditions promptly. Snow clearance operations are in full swing, ensuring that normalcy returns to the valley at the earliest opportunity.

Jammu and Kashmir Police Crack Mira Sahib Firing Case, Arrest Three Suspects

Drug Smuggling 2 arrested

In a significant breakthrough, the Jammu and Kashmir Police announced the resolution of the Mira Sahib firing incident with the arrest of three individuals in Jammu.

According to a police spokesperson, the incident occurred on April 27th in the evening, when local miscreants opened fire at Khajuria Food Mall in Miran Sahib and demanded a ransom. Subsequently, they repeated the episode in Chohalla, RS Pura.

Promptly responding to the situation, the police initiated action by registering Case FIR No. 44/307 336 34 IPC, & 3/25, 3/27 Arms Act at PS Miran Sahib, and Case FIR No. 74/2024 U/S 452/307/34, IPC & 3/25, 3/27 Arms Act at PS RS Pura. Investigations commenced immediately thereafter.

Police teams, guided by human intelligence and technical surveillance, conducted raids in the Miran Sahib and RS Pura areas. Through diligent analysis of CCTV footage from the crime scenes and surrounding areas, authorities successfully identified and apprehended the three main suspects responsible for the firing incidents. Additionally, they recovered a Desi Katta firearm along with live cartridges.

During preliminary interrogation, the accused confessed to their involvement in the firing incidents and the extortion attempts. The arrested individuals were identified as @Guga and @Krrish, residents of RS Pura, and Kulbir Bhagat @Rinku, son of Bhushan Lal from Langotiyan, RS Pura.

It was revealed that @Guga had four FIRs registered against him previously, while Kulbir Bhagat @Rinku was also implicated in a rape case at Police Station Bishna.

Further, the police successfully recovered the motorcycle and Scooty used in the commission of the offence. The investigation is also delving into the roles of individuals who provided logistical support to the criminals, including notorious criminal Arun Choudhary @Abu Jatt, currently incarcerated at District Jail Kathua, and his associates. Moreover, authorities are scrutinizing the authenticity of certain social media updates, including Instagram posts.

The arrests mark a significant milestone in the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Police to maintain law and order in the region. Investigations into the case continue, with a focus on bringing all involved parties to justice.

Sonamarg tragedy: Four dead, one missing as Tavera plunges into river; rescue operation underway, investigations ongoing

In a tragic turn of events near Gagangeer Hung in the picturesque Sonamarg region of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, a Tavera vehicle carrying sightseers veered off the road, resulting in four confirmed fatalities, one individual still unaccounted for, and two rescued with injuries.

The harrowing incident unfolded as the Tavera (bearing registration number 8950/JK13B) careened into the Nallah Sindh following a loss of control by the driver, causing eight passengers to be submerged in the river.

Promptly upon receiving the distress call, a meticulously coordinated rescue operation swung into action, spearheaded by the diligent efforts of SSP Ganderbal Sandeep Gupta, SHO P/S Gund Lateef Ali, SHO Sonamarg Turk Zahoor, and a coalition of rescue units including SDRF Gund Component, 34 Assam Rifles, CRPF 118 Bn, Traffic Police, Tourist Police, APCO Company, along with local volunteers, PHC Kullan and Sonamarg teams, Tehsildar Gund, and Fire Services, among others. This concerted endeavor led to the successful retrieval of two injured tourists, swiftly transported for medical attention at PHC Kullan and subsequently SKIMS Soura for advanced care.

Tragically, amidst the ongoing rescue mission, the bodies of four tourists have been recovered from the river, while one individual remains missing according to preliminary reports. Remarkably, the driver of the vehicle survived the ordeal.

Efforts persist as officials strive to locate the missing person and retrieve the submerged vehicle from the depths of the Sindh river. Concurrently, investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident are underway, with a comprehensive understanding anticipated upon the conclusion of the rescue operations.

Gunmen Attack Sweet Shop in Miran Sahib Jammu, Claim of Responsibility Emerges on Social Media

Miran Sahib Jammu

“Unidentified assailants unleashed gunfire at a sweet shop in Jammu and Kashmir’s Miran Sahib area on Saturday evening. Initial reports suggest that the perpetrators arrived at the scene and opened fire without warning.

A social media account under the alias ‘Abbu Jatt’ has purportedly claimed responsibility for the attack. In a post written in Hindi, the account warned of further violence if their demands are not met, dispelling any notion of a peaceful resolution.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, with police personnel assessing the site in the aftermath of the shooting. Further updates on the situation are pending.

This incident follows a recent targeted killing in the Anantnag district, where a migrant worker from Bihar fell victim to gunmen. The Kashmir Zone Police confirmed the tragedy and stated that search operations are ongoing in the area for the perpetrators.”

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SKUAST-K Celebrates World Veterinary Day: Honoring Essential Role of Veterinarians

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUAST-K) buzzed with energy as it commemorated World Veterinary Day 2024 at the Veterinary Faculty, Shuhama, with the resounding theme “Veterinarians are Essential Health Workers.” This annual affair, celebrated worldwide on the last Saturday of April, paid homage to the indispensable role of veterinary professionals in safeguarding animal health, human well-being, and environmental equilibrium.

The day unfolded with vibrant participation from a diverse array of attendees, including veterinary scientists, para-veterinary professionals, research scholars, enthusiastic undergraduates and postgraduates, and spirited school children from neighboring educational institutions. The event’s agenda brimmed with engaging activities, from an invigorating awareness rally and ceremonious flag hoisting to the captivating unveiling of “Vets Vision 2024,” a brain-stimulating quiz competition, enlightening theme-driven lectures, and proactive initiatives such as village and school adoptions aimed at bolstering animal production and health interventions.

At the heart of the celebration stood Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir Prof Nazir A Ganai, who eloquently highlighted the global resonance of veterinary professionals in fortifying the health nexus of animals, humans, and ecosystems. Prof Ganai extolled SKUAST-K’s pivotal role in nurturing a dynamic and adept veterinary workforce, poised to tackle the myriad challenges of today and tomorrow, resonating harmoniously with the ethos of World Veterinary Day 2024.

Colonel SK Dahiya, echoing the sentiments of camaraderie and shared responsibility, lauded SKUAST-K’s steadfast commitment to the One Health approach, advocating for concerted efforts towards sculpting a promising tomorrow where animals flourish under the dedicated care and expertise of veterinarians.

Simultaneously, the curtains drew to a close on the XX Annual Convention of the Indian Society for Advancement of Canine Practice (ISACP), themed “Insights on latest developments in Companion Animal Practice and healthcare management,” amidst resounding applause and scholarly discourse. The esteemed gathering, graced by over 200 delegates hailing from every corner of the nation, culminated with Dr Nazir Ahmad Sudan, Vice President of ISACP, delivering a poignant valedictory address.

Dr Mudasir Ali Rather captivated the audience with a thought-provoking keynote lecture that encapsulated the essence of World Veterinary Day’s theme, followed by a jubilant prize distribution ceremony honoring the participants of the enthralling quiz programs. Dr Amatul Muhee, in a poignant moment, presented a comprehensive report encapsulating the conference’s deliberations and proceedings, while Dr Abdul Hai, in a gesture of gratitude, extended heartfelt thanks to all involved, marking the culmination of a memorable and impactful celebration.

Crisis in Pernote Village: Landslides Prompt Swift Action from Authorities

Pernote village, nestled just five kilometers from Ramban town, has been plunged into chaos following a series of catastrophic landslides that wreaked havoc on its infrastructure. The unfolding crisis has spurred authorities into action, with teams dispatched to investigate the root cause of the land subsidence.

The ordeal began with a cascading landslide yesterday evening, approximately 5 km from Ramban, causing significant damage to the picturesque landscape. Roads have been rendered impassable, severely disrupting transportation, while around 30-40 houses in the vicinity have suffered extensive damage.

In response to the escalating situation, authorities have launched surveys and assessments to gauge the extent of the destruction and identify potential risks. Urgency has been emphasized by local officials, who have evacuated those left homeless by the disaster.

The severity of the crisis became evident as cracks appeared in the walls of houses in Pernote village, signaling imminent danger. Matters worsened when the vital road link connecting Gool and Ramban succumbed to the sinking land, further isolating the beleaguered village.

Leading the response efforts is Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who has personally overseen the crisis. “The safety and well-being of our citizens are of paramount importance,” affirmed LG Sinha, stressing the need for a coordinated approach.

Sources reveal LG Sinha’s constant communication with relevant authorities and experts to unravel the mystery behind the land subsidence. “Identifying the cause is crucial to preventing future occurrences and ensuring community safety,” remarked an official.

Relief operations prioritize the relocation and resettlement of affected families to safer locations, offering immediate assistance such as shelter, food, and medical aid. The District Administration Ramban has launched a comprehensive support initiative, including a 24/7 kitchen facility at the campsite in Pernote.

The camp office of the Deputy Commissioner/Chairman DDMA Ramban has been set up to coordinate relief efforts, providing essential supplies and medical aid. The administration remains committed to supporting the community through this crisis, offering unwavering assistance every step of the way.

Snowfall Forces Closure of Karnah-Kupwara Road: Authorities Monitor Weather for Reopening

Amidst a fresh bout of snowfall at Sadhna Top, the Karnah-Kupwara Road has been closed to all vehicular traffic. Authorities made the decision on Saturday due to the accumulation of several inches of snow at Sadhna Top, rendering the road impassable.

Officials stated that the closure is temporary and will remain in effect until weather conditions improve. Once the snow clears and the road is deemed safe for travel, it will be reopened to traffic.

The Karnah administration has also issued a weather advisory, urging residents of higher-altitude areas and those living near water bodies to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. This precautionary measure aims to ensure the safety of residents amid the challenging weather conditions.