Forest fire triggers land mine blasts along LOC

M S Nazki

Poonch; Dozens of landmines have exploded in Balakot and Mendhar sub-sectors near the Line of Control (LOC) due to a forest fire which erupted from Pakistani side two days ago.

Reports said that a state of utter panic was created in the forward villages when the fire broke out from Pak side of the LoC. The fire then went on spreading on this side of the LoC and the explosion of landmines started.

A larger area has come under fire and the troops are on high alert. Some area of Mendhar sector is also under fire causing damage to green gold and wildlife species. Thick clouds of smoke are visible from Mendhar town along the LoC.

The Army is suspecting deliberate attempt of the Pakistani troops to neutralise mines and make way for armed terrorists from that side. The explosions created havoc in the entire belt while troops intensified patrolling.