Army troops in Jammu and Kashmir‘s Poonch district conducted a comprehensive mock drill on Sunday, simulating a terrorist attack scenario to bolster operational readiness and familiarize local residents with emergency procedures. The exercise, which took place amid an intensified security vigil in border areas, aimed to test and refine evacuation protocols, safety measures, and the coordination between security agencies, the civil administration, and the civilian population to ensure a swift and effective response during contingencies. Officials stated that the drill was executed simultaneously by Rashtriya Rifles personnel and other Army units across multiple locations along the Line of Control (LoC), including the Mendhar sector, as well as in the hinterland, focusing on assessing overall operational preparedness and inter-agency coordination.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that residents viewed such drills as crucial for maintaining public alertness and awareness regarding necessary actions during emergencies. Former Block Development Council (BDC) member from Mankote, Amanullah Choudhary, expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for organizing the exercise, emphasizing its importance in keeping everyone vigilant. Choudhary highlighted the Army’s consistent initiatives to educate the public on self-protection measures in various situations. He further remarked that the people residing in border areas have historically demonstrated unwavering support for the nation and will continue to do so. Choudhary acknowledged past sacrifices and affirmed the populace’s willingness to make them again if the need arises, thanking the Army for the training provided through these drills and pledging full support. Another resident, Mohd Farooq, noted that the exercise not only enhanced awareness about emergency preparedness but also significantly boosted the confidence of individuals living in vulnerable border regions, where maintaining a high level of readiness is paramount.
Concurrently, the Army has significantly ramped up security measures in the towns of Surankote and Mendhar within Poonch. This heightened security posture includes increased troop deployment and the establishment of numerous checkpoints, a response to intelligence inputs indicating potential infiltration attempts or terror-related activities by militants in the region. Security personnel are maintaining a strict watch over critical locations to safeguard public safety and preempt any untoward incidents. Officials have advised residents to cooperate fully with security checks and to promptly report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Area domination patrols have been intensified, with enhanced surveillance being implemented along major roadways, public spaces, and other vulnerable points. Mobile Vehicle Check Posts (MVCPs) and surprise inspection points have been strategically positioned to monitor vehicular movement and verify the identities of commuters. Furthermore, foot patrols and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have been deployed to ensure a rapid response to any security-related contingency. Security agencies are working in close collaboration with the local police and civil administration to facilitate seamless information sharing and to establish effective response mechanisms. Surveillance has also been strengthened around sensitive installations, markets, educational institutions, and other areas where public gatherings are common. Night patrolling and observation of suspected infiltration and escape routes have been augmented to deter any hostile actions. The public has been urged to remain calm, refrain from spreading or believing unverified rumors, and to continue their daily routines while adhering to security advisories. Any suspicious movements, unattended objects, or unusual activities are to be reported immediately to the nearest security establishment or police authorities, as public cooperation and vigilance are deemed essential for maintaining peace, security, and normalcy in the region.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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