Pakistan ceaserfire violation: Around 2000 families shifted from 57 border villages in Kathua

JAMMU: With tension prevailing on the border, Jammu and Kashmir government has evacuated 1998 families comprising nearly 10,000 people from 57 border villages of Kathua district.

Eight persons have been killed and nearly 90 others injured in mortar shelling and firing by Pakistan troops from October 1-9 along the IB in Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts forcing over 32000 people from 113 border hamlets to flee.

"District Administration has evacuated and shifted 1998 families from as many as 57 border villages", District Development Commissioner, Kathua, Shahid Iqbal said today.

There are 9,597 persons in 35 different camps established across Hiranagar and Marheen Tehsils, he said, adding that due to border shelling 57 villages have been affected out of which 41 villages have been affected directly.

The administration has earmarked 61 buildings as relief camps in various areas, he said.

Since Thursday evening 12 more villages have been evacuated within 0-3 km range from border and 16 more camps established, he said.

Special buses have been deployed for ferrying border residents during day time to look after their livestock and crops in respective areas.

Iqbal along with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Mohan Lal and other officers visited forward areas along the border and assessed the prevailing situation. They also visited newly established camps and reviewed the amenities available.