Tensions escalated along the Line of Control in Poonch sector late on Wednesday evening following 'unprovoked' ceasefire violation by the Pakistan army.
According to ground reports, the firing which started from Sonagali around 4.00 pm continued till late in the night.
The entire stretch between Balakote and Mankote was activated and witnessed heavy exchange of fire. The Indian army jawans remained in a state of high alert to prevent any strike by Border Action Team of Pakistan army or fresh infiltration bid.
The local villagers in the area also remained closeted inside their houses as several mortar shells landed in the civilian areas close to the line of control. Residents in Poonch claimed the exchange of fire along the LoC was intense and was audible in Poonch town.
Defence PRO in Jammu, Lt Col Devendra Anand said, " Pakistan army initiated 'unprovoked' ceasefire violation by using small arms fire. Pak army also targeted forward areas in Mendhar sector by shelling with mortars". "The Indian army retaliated strongly and effectively", he added.
In plain areas of Jammu, especially along the International border, the counter infiltration grid has been beefed up to prevent any infiltration bid.Small groups of heavily armed infiltrators were spotted in the areas by the border guards close to the International border.