Villagers near LoC get bunkers ready as India-Pakistan tensions persist

The tragedy in Pahalgam and the along the Line of Control (LoC) — particularly in vulnerable villages like Salotri — underscore how swiftly life can shift from everyday routine to a state of high-alert survival for residents living in this volatile frontier.

Salotri, situated just across from Pakistani military posts, is feeling the pressure acutely. The sight of villagers clearing out ageing bunkers and stocking up on essentials reflects both fear and resilience — hallmarks of a community all too familiar with the relentless rhythms of conflict.

According to an IANS report, villagers living on the very edge of the LoC have begun reinforcing their bunkers, following unprovoked ceasefire violations by Pakistan over the past two days.

The bunkers in Salotri have played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of residents during volatile times. Underground and bulletproof, they offer a substantial level of protection against both small-arms fire and artillery shelling, which are common during periods of heightened tension between India and Pakistan.

The provision of these bunkers also highlights the ongoing commitment to the security of residents in conflict-prone areas like Jammu and Kashmir, where cross-border tensions frequently escalate.

"We live in a border area, and the bunkers provided by PM Modi for civilians here are very strong, bulletproof, and built 10 feet underground. There is no danger inside them. We are very thankful to PM Modi because we feel completely safe while staying in our own homes," a villager told IANS.

Following on tourists in Pahalgam, cross-border skirmishes have broken out along the LoC, particularly in the border district of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir. According to Indian military sources, there have been reports of unprovoked firing by Pakistani troops across the LoC over multiple nights. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported yet.

These skirmishes are adding to the already fragile environment, especially as both India and Pakistan have already taken major diplomatic and economic retaliatory steps against each other.

In response to the attack, India has implemented several significant measures:

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: India has suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a crucial water-sharing agreement, until Pakistan ceases its support for cross-border terrorism.

Diplomatic downgrading: India expelled Pakistani military advisors and reduced the staff strength of the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi. Similarly, Indian military advisors were withdrawn from Islamabad.

Visa and travel restrictions: Visas for Pakistani nationals have been revoked, and all Pakistani nationals with SAARC visas were ordered to leave India within 48 hours.

Closure of border crossings: The Wagah-Attari border crossing, the only land route between the two countries, has been closed.

In retaliation, Pakistan has taken the following steps:

Suspension of the Simla Agreement: Pakistan has suspended the 1972 Simla Agreement, which outlines the framework for bilateral relations between the two countries.

Airspace and trade restrictions: Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian flights and halted all trade with India.

Diplomatic measures: Indian diplomats were expelled, and Pakistani authorities have downgraded diplomatic ties with India.

Warning on water diversion: Pakistan has declared that any attempt by India to divert water from the Indus River would be considered an act of war.

However, the United Nations has called for maximum restraint from both sides. UN secretary-general António Guterres emphasised the need for peaceful resolution through meaningful mutual engagement.

Meanwhile, Pakistani defense minister Khawaja Asif has called for an international investigation into the Pahalgam attack, asserting Pakistan's willingness to cooperate with international investigators.

As the situation remains volatile, the international community continues to urge de-escalation to prevent further deterioration of relations between India and Pakistan.