Two Rusted Mortar Shells Found in J&K’s Poonch Safely Destroyed by Army Bomb Disposal Squad
Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir | August 3, 2026: Vigilant villagers and prompt action by security forces helped avert a potential tragedy after two rusted unexploded mortar shells were recovered from separate forward villages in Poonch district. The explosives were later safely neutralised by the Indian Army’s Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) through controlled explosions.
The recovered shells are believed to be remnants of earlier cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), highlighting the continued risks faced by residents living in border areas.
First Mortar Shell Recovered Near Chajjla Bridge
According to officials, the first unexploded mortar shell was spotted by local villagers in an open field near Chajjla Bridge in the Mankote area of Mendhar sector.
After noticing the suspicious object, residents immediately informed the police and security forces. The area was secured to prevent civilian access while the Army Bomb Disposal Squad was called to inspect the explosive. Experts later destroyed the shell through a controlled explosion, following all prescribed safety protocols.
Second Shell Found in Agricultural Fields
In a separate incident, another rusted mortar shell was discovered in agricultural fields at Adhaki village near Mendhar Nallah.
Bomb disposal experts safely neutralised the explosive without causing any damage to nearby property or farmland. Officials confirmed that the disposal operation was completed successfully and no injuries were reported.
Believed to Be Remnants of Past LoC Shelling
Security officials believe that both unexploded ordnance pieces were left behind during previous episodes of cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC).
Although hostilities in the area have reduced significantly in recent years, unexploded ammunition continues to pose a serious danger to civilians, particularly farmers and residents living near border villages.
Timely Reporting Prevented a Major Accident
Authorities praised the alertness of local residents who promptly informed security agencies after spotting the suspicious objects.
Officials reiterated that citizens should never attempt to touch or move unexploded military ammunition. Instead, they should immediately alert the nearest police station or Army unit to ensure safe disposal by trained specialists.
Safety Advisory for Border Residents
Residents living near the LoC are advised to:
- Avoid handling any unidentified metallic or explosive-looking object.
- Inform the nearest police station or Army post immediately.
- Keep children and livestock away from suspicious objects.
- Wait for Bomb Disposal Squad personnel to secure and neutralise the area.
Why Unexploded Ordnance Remains a Concern
Unexploded shells and other remnants of past conflicts can remain active for years despite exposure to weather. Such explosives may still detonate if disturbed, making professional disposal essential.
Regular search and disposal operations by the Army continue to reduce risks in border districts such as Poonch, Rajouri and Kupwara, where remnants of earlier shelling are occasionally discovered.
Conclusion
The successful recovery and controlled destruction of two rusted mortar shells in Poonch once again demonstrates the importance of public vigilance and rapid coordination between local residents, police, and the Indian Army. The timely operation ensured there was no loss of life or property while reinforcing the need for continued awareness in border areas where unexploded ordnance may still remain.