The situation along the line of Control in Nowshera sector continue to remain grim for the second consecutive day on Sunday. After a brief lull of few hours during the night mortar shelling from the Pakistan side resumed early Sunday morning.
According to Defence spokesperson in Jammu, “Pakistan Army initiated indiscriminate firing along the line of control earlysunday morning.” He said, “Pak Army used 82 mm and 120 mm mortars to target the civilian areas along the loC.”
As firing intensified Indian Army retaliated effectively, spokesman added. The firing continued for about two hours in the area, he added.
District authorities in Rajouri claimed ceasefire violation was reported at Manjakote and Chingus areas at 6.20 am on sundaymorning.
According to them Pak Army shattered peace in Chhotibakri village in Doongi area where at least 30 shells exploded near habitations. No loss of life or injury was reported. Three cattle were reported dead in the area. In Tarkudi area 14-15 shells landed from across the line of control, however, no loss was reported.
In Niaka-Panjgrain village of Manjakote 3-4 shells were dropped in cross-border shelling. More than 40 shells landed in various areas of Manjakote where 3 houses were damaged.
Due to prevailing security situation in the forward areas 1114 persons of 298 families have been accommodated in 5 different relief camps established in Nowshera.
Eight villages of Nowshera have been badly affected by heavy shelling which include Khamba, Sarya, Bhawani, Kalsian, Manpur, Danaka, Khori and Ganya. More than 1000 people have been shifted to camps in last 24 hours.
Deputy Commissioner, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary said more than 2694 families comprised of 10,042 persons have been affected in shelling.
Two civilians including a minor girl were killed on Saturday while 6 others were injured. 65 livestock were also reported dead. Standing crops and green forest suffered heavy damages during intense shelling.
Deputy CM Prof Nirmal Singh visited Nowshera and interacted with border residents camping in relief camps. He directed the district authorities to provide basic necessities to these people.