Arshad Farooq
Baramulla, May 7 : One year after cross-border Pakistan shelling left a trail of destruction in several border villages of Jammu and Kashmir, many affected families are still struggling to rebuild their homes and restore normal life, even as memories of the terrifying nights continue to haunt them.
On the anniversary of Operation Sindoor, our reporter visited the shelling-affected border area in north Kashmir’s Uri, where residents narrated painful stories of loss, displacement and emotional trauma caused by the intense cross-border firing.
Locals recalled how heavy shelling from Pakistan struck their villages without warning, forcing families, including women, children and elderly persons, to flee in darkness to safer locations.
One woman, whose house was destroyed during the shelling, said the incident shattered her family’s future. “Everything we had was lost within minutes. We still do not know how we will rebuild our home. My husband is a labourer and we survive on daily wages. Starting life again is not easy for us,” she said with tears in her eyes.
Another resident, Talib Hussain, said the fear and trauma still remain fresh among villagers. “Whenever we hear a loud sound, the memories return. Children still get frightened at night. We have suffered huge losses and have very little support to rebuild our lives,” he said.
Saima, another victim whose house suffered major damage, said although some immediate relief was provided, long-term rehabilitation remains a challenge. “We received blankets, mattresses and some assistance in the beginning, but rebuilding a house requires much more support. Construction costs in border areas are very high,” she said.
Residents said that the compensation provided to affected families was nor sufficient in view of rising prices of construction material and transportation costs in remote areas. They appealed to the government to enhance compensation and introduce a proper rehabilitation package for shelling victims.
At the same time, residents appreciated the role of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the civil administration for extending timely support during and after the shelling incidents. They said the forces and officials helped evacuate families to safer places, provided relief material and stood by the affected population during the difficult period.
Locals, however, stressed that permanent rehabilitation measures and stronger financial assistance are necessary to help affected families rebuild their lives with dignity.
