Despite a recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, residents of the Poonch district in Jammu and Kashmir continue to live under the shadow of fear. The trauma of intense shelling and the ongoing presence of unexploded ordnance in civilian areas has left many with a lingering sense of insecurity.
Devastation from Recent Shelling
In early May 2025, Poonch witnessed its heaviest shelling since the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Over a span of several days, Pakistani forces targeted forward villages along the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in at least 13 deaths — including four children and one soldier — and injuries to 57 others. Homes, vehicles, and even a local Gurudwara were reduced to rubble. Villagers reported running for shelter with no time to collect belongings, huddling in underground bunkers for hours at a time.
Unexploded Ordnance: An Ongoing Threat
Even after the ceasefire, unexploded mortar shells and bombs lie scattered across fields, homes, and roads in Poonch. These deadly remnants of conflict continue to pose serious risks to civilians, especially children. The Indian Army has launched operations to detect and safely destroy these devices, but fear remains deeply rooted in local communities. Villagers are hesitant to return to farming or even to walk freely outdoors.
Civilian Displacement and Psychological Trauma
Many families in the border areas were forced to flee their homes during the shelling. While some have returned, others remain displaced, too afraid to go back. Schools have seen poor attendance, and businesses are struggling to reopen. For many, the trauma of the attacks is fresh — the sound of every loud bang or engine stirs anxiety, and the thought persists: “What if it explodes?”
Government Response and Relief Measures
The Jammu and Kashmir administration has released emergency funds for the affected districts and urged officials to prepare better evacuation plans. Measures include building more underground bunkers, ensuring food and medical supply chains, and improving border infrastructure. Despite these efforts, locals have expressed frustration over delays in receiving compensation and the lack of long-term safety assurances.
A Fragile Peace
Though the ceasefire currently holds, the situation remains tense and uncertain. The recent attacks highlight the fragile nature of peace along the LoC. Residents of Poonch, while relieved that the immediate threat has subsided, continue to live in fear of renewed violence. The fear of another shell, another explosion, continues to haunt daily life.
