Rajouri: Security forces have intensified search and surveillance operations in the dense Gambhir Mughlan forest area of the Manjakote sector in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district as an anti-terror operation, codenamed Operation Sheruwali, continues to track down suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the region.
The operation is being conducted jointly by the Indian Army, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the area.
Multi-Agency Operation Underway
Security personnel have established a tight cordon around the suspected hideout zone to prevent any escape attempts by terrorists. Search teams are combing the forested terrain while maintaining continuous surveillance of strategic locations.
Officials said the operation remains active, with forces using all available resources, including intelligence inputs and ground surveillance, to monitor terrorist movements and neutralise potential threats.
The rugged landscape, dense vegetation, and difficult terrain have made the operation particularly challenging, prompting security personnel to proceed cautiously while ensuring the safety of troops and civilians.
Area Under High Alert
The entire region has been placed under heightened security, with movement in sensitive areas being closely monitored. Authorities have indicated that search operations will continue until the area is thoroughly sanitised and all security concerns are addressed.
Operation Sheruwali is part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to eliminate terrorist networks and maintain peace and stability in the Jammu region.
Rajouri Also Witnesses Spike in Forest Fires
Meanwhile, Rajouri district has also been grappling with a series of forest fires. According to Sat Pal, Conservator of Forests (West Circle), around 45 forest fire incidents have been reported across the Rajouri and Nowshera forest divisions during the past 12 weeks.
Fresh visuals from the Sialsui Khadar forest area in Kalakote tehsil showed large stretches of forest engulfed in flames. Officials attribute the rise in incidents to prolonged hot and dry weather conditions experienced across parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Forest authorities, however, expressed optimism that recent rainfall and a drop in temperatures could help reduce the occurrence of such fires in the coming weeks.
Security and Environmental Challenges
The simultaneous challenges of counter-terror operations and recurring forest fires have kept authorities on high alert in Rajouri. While security forces continue their mission under Operation Sheruwali, forest officials are also monitoring vulnerable areas to prevent further damage caused by wildfires.
