700 Structures Damaged in Pak Shelling in Uri, Karnah

The local administration has proposed construction of 5,200 underground bunkers in Uri and Karnah sectors in north Kashmir for safety of border residents, living under the threat of cross-border mortar and artillery fire by Pakistan.

- FAYAZ WANI @Srinagar

As per officials, construction will begin immediately after government approval.

These two regions bore the brunt of Pakistan shelling during and in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor last month. Over 700 houses and structures suffered damage. Over 60 structures, including people's homes, were razed, while four schools were partially damaged.

An official said the local administration has proposed to the J&K government to establish 4,000 underground bunkers in Uri region. "We have proposed 3,500 individual bunkers, which can accommodate 10-120 people and 500 community bunkers that can accommodate 30-40 persons at a time," the official said.