Pak shelling kills one, operation flush out continues

SRINAGAR, May 24: One person was killed in fresh artillery and mortar shelling by Pakistani troops in the Kargil sector, while the major ...

SRINAGAR, May 24: One person was killed in fresh artillery and mortar shelling by Pakistani troops in the Kargil sector, while the major offensive against the heavily armed and trained Pakistani infiltrators in the 120 km-long Khalsi-Drass border areas continued for the 16th day on Monday.

According to official sources, Pakistani troops resorted to artillery and mortar shelling in Kargil sector around 11.30 am after a break of two days during the day time. However, the shelling from across the border has continued during night since May 8.

One Liyaqat Ali was killed on the spot at village Baroo in Kargil when a shell fired by the Pakistani troops fell on him. About five to six shells fell in the town on Monday. Details of casualties or damage to property were not known. All senior officials in the town have taken shelter in the specially built bunkers, the sources said.

Life was limping back to normal after the shelling from across the border stopped during day time for the last two days. However,today8217;s shelling forced all shops and business establishments to draw their shutters, a resident informed.

Streets wore a deserted look with only police and army vehicles seen moving about the town. Helicopters making sorties were sighted. According to an eyewitness, shelling was on from both sides and loud explosions could be heard.

About 75 per cent population has already migrated to safer areas. All educational institutions in the have been closed since May 8 while a degree college has been shifted to a safer village, he added.

According to official sources, heavy shelling was also reported in Drass where almost all the people had migrated to safer places. About 40 to 50 shells landed in and around Drass today causing damage to about 50 to 60 houses. Some policemen were posted in the town to look after the belongings of the people. Villagers from five villages in the area were shifted to safer places today by the authorities.