Two rusted unexploded mortar shells were recovered from separate forward villages in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district and safely destroyed by the Army's Bomb Disposal Squad, officials said on Tuesday.
The first unexploded mortar shell was found in an open field near Chajjla Bridge in the Mankote area after local villagers alerted the authorities. Police and security personnel immediately reached the spot, secured the area and called the Army's Bomb Disposal Squad to examine the explosive.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Two unexploded mortar shells recovered from separate villages in Poonch.
Army Bomb Disposal Squad safely neutralised both explosives.
No casualties or property damage reported.
Officials believe the shells were remnants of past LoC shelling.
Residents advised not to touch suspicious objects and immediately alert authorities.
Following standard safety procedures, the shell was neutralised through a controlled explosion without any damage or injuries.
In another incident, security forces recovered a second unexploded mortar shell from agricultural fields in Adhaki village near Mendhar Nallah. The Army's Bomb Disposal Squad safely disposed of the explosive, ensuring there was no threat to nearby residents.
Officials believe both unexploded shells are remnants of past cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), where such unexploded ordnance is occasionally discovered even years after firing incidents.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Unexploded military ordnance continues to pose a safety risk in border districts even years after shelling incidents. Timely reporting by local residents and quick action by security forces help prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
Authorities have urged residents living in border areas to remain vigilant and immediately inform the police or security forces if they notice any suspicious or unexploded objects. Citizens have been advised not to touch, move or attempt to handle such explosives, as they can remain dangerous despite appearing old or rusted.
