Intense anti-terror operation in Kulgam’s Akhal enters 10th day

Srinagar , Aug 10: The high-intensity counter-terrorism operation in the dense Akhal forests of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its tenth day on Sunday , as joint security forces continue an exhaustive search to flush out hiding terrorists.

Officials say the operation remains far from over, with the forested terrain posing significant challenges. So far two soldiers and a terrorist has been killed in the one most prolonged operations in Kashmir in recent times.

The operation was launched 10 days ago after credible intelligence inputs indicated the presence of heavily armed terrorists hiding in the dense Akhal forest belt, a remote and rugged area in the higher reaches of Kulgam. The forest, known for its difficult topography and thick foliage.

Initial contact with the terrorists occurred during the early phase of the operation, leading to the killing of one unidentified terrorist. However, the gun battle also resulted into the killing of two Army soldiers. Since then, there has been a lull in firing.

The ongoing operation is being spearheaded by the Army, with support from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the CRPF, Para (Special Forces), and other paramilitary units. Officials say the operation has now entered a “search and flush-out” phase, with the forces combing every inch of the forest using handheld thermal imaging, night vision devices, drone surveillance, and sniffer dogs.

Senior security officials, including Director General of Police (DGP) J&K, Nalin Prabhat, and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, VK Birdi, visited the site on Sunday to review the progress and coordinate inter-agency cooperation. Their presence underscores the high stakes and operational importance of the mission.

With concerns that the terrorists may attempt to escape by blending into nearby civilian areas, security forces have ramped up vigil in the adjoining villages of Khulshan, Lamber, Hahlan, and Malvan. Temporary checkpoints, patrolling teams, and aerial surveillance have been deployed to prevent any infiltration or movement of suspected individuals. The Akhal Kulgam operation is part of a broader anti-terror strategy being implemented in south Kashmir.