Normalcy returning to Poonch after shelling displaces hundreds

Days after deadly shelling in Poonch left several dead and caused widespread damage to homes and infrastructure, signs of normalcy are beginning to emerge.

While many residents are still displaced, staying in Jammu or other safer areas of the Union Territory, some have begun returning to the district.

Many parts of Poonch, including the city area, came under heavy shelling from Pakistani shelling last week when tensions between the two countries soared. There was shelling even in other parts of Jammu region but Poonch that is located along the Line of Control (LoC) suffered the most.

Shafkat Khan, a resident of Mendhar, said most of the villages and other areas of the district were left empty when the residents fled from here due to heavy shelling. Minors were among those killed in heavy shelling.

“Some shops were opened for the first time on Tuesday days after the district counted its dead. The mourning is still going on in different homes but people have to live and work. I hope we do not see such a day in our life ever,” said Khan.

Khan, however, said people who fled their homes are still afraid and may take time to return to their homes.

The district administration Poonch on Tuesday said all essential services, including healthcare and supplies are functioning smoothly and that the needs of residents are being met efficiently.

An official informed “Hospitals across the district are fully operational with sufficient stocks of essential medicines and drugs. Ambulance services are readily available to ensure timely medical support. Banking services are functioning seamlessly, with all ATMs having sufficient cash to meet public needs”.

Officials informed that there is no scarcity of food grains, petrol, diesel and LPG. “The supply chain is stable, and no shortages have been reported from any region,” he said.

Poonch DC Vikas Kundal said the administration is fully committed to the welfare of the residents adding that the departments are working in close coordination to ensure uninterrupted support and assistance.

The administration has also started assessment of the losses suffered by the locals in Poonch after which a detailed report will be sent to the UT administration for release of relief and compensation.

J & K