100 bunkers being constructed to protect villagers from Pak shelling
What's the story
Over 100 shell-proof underground bunkers are being constructed along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sunderbani sector of Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). The move is meant to protect the residents of vulnerable villages from cross-border shelling. This comes amid an increase in ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the Pir Panjal Valley in J&K. Here's more about it.
Data
Pakistani ceasefire violations killed around 30 people this year
Government data show that Pakistan violated the ceasefire 771 times along the LoC in J&K till December 10, this ear. Overall, 14 army personnel, four BSF jawans and 12 civilians have been killed in Pakistani ceasefire violations in 2017.
Details
Decision came after villagers expressed concern over shelling
The decision to construct the bunkers came after a public meeting chaired by District Development Commissioner (DDC), Rajouri, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary and 300 villagers from six panchayats. The DDC then directed the sub-divisional magistrate of Sunderbani to consult with the locals, army and elected representatives to finalize the locations for the construction of 100 bunkers.
Information
Robust bunkers to be capable of withstanding direct hits
The bunkers would be designed in a way that makes them capable of withstanding the impact of shells fired by Pakistan. Sources say the bunkers will feature a double RCC slab filled with five feet of sand to ensure no shells can penetrate them.