Several landmines detonate due to forest fire along LoC in Poonch, no casualties reported

Several landmines exploded along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district on Friday due to a forest fire, officials reported. The fire broke out in the Dhari Dabsi forest in the Mendhar sector and in the Sona Gali area of the Mankote sector, causing multiple landmine blasts.

According to officials, over half a dozen landmines detonated as a result of the fire. However, no casualties or significant damage were reported from the explosions. 

The mines, part of an anti-infiltration obstacle system, are strategically placed in forward areas along the LoC to prevent infiltration by terrorists from across the border.

As of now, the fire continues to rage in the forested areas, and efforts to control the flames are ongoing. Local authorities are working to ensure the safety of the area and to prevent further incidents.

(With PTI Inputs)