Security forces defuse an IED in Kashmir on Bandipora highway; avert tragedy

A major tragedy was averted on Sunday when a joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police detected a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) on the Sopore-Bandipora road in North Kashmir. The explosive was planted near a critical transit point, a route frequently used by security forces convoys and local commuters. The alert Road Opening Party (ROP) spotted the suspicious object during their routine morning sweep, immediately raising an alarm to prevent any casualties.

Following the discovery, security forces cordoned off the entire area, and all vehicular movement on the busy highway was suspended. This led to a significant traffic jam, but authorities prioritized safety to ensure no civilians were within the blast radius. A Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) was called to the site to assess the nature of the device and proceed with its safe disposal. The prompt detection is being seen as a major success for the security apparatus during the ongoing high-alert winter period.

Security experts believe that the IED was planted by terrorists to target security convoys and disrupt the relative peace in the Baramulla district. The use of roadside explosives remains a persistent threat in the valley, leading to intensified manual and electronic surveillance along the highways. After the device was successfully handled, the security forces conducted a thorough search of the adjoining orchards and residential pockets to ensure no other explosive materials were hidden nearby.