Nowgam sector gets first-ever community bunkers amid border tensions

Kupwara, May 17: In a historic move, authorities have begun constructing community bunkers in the Nowgam sector of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district, following a recent escalation of tension along the Line of Control (LoC). This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing the safety of civilians living in vulnerable border areas.According to officials, the initial phase involves the construction of seven community bunkers across key locations, including Pothwari, 5 Number, Naugam, and Mankal, each site receiving one bunker. These structures are being developed in close proximity to residential areas to ensure easy and immediate access during emergencies.
An official from the Public Works Department (PWD) told Rising Kashmir that each bunker will be 15 meters in length and 10 feet in width, with the capacity to accommodate five to seven families. The construction is being executed by the PWD with support from the Forest Department and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department. The bunkers are expected to be ready for use within two days.
The recent escalation along the borders has left residents of the Nowgam sector in a state of constant fear, severely impacting their daily lives and livelihoods. “We have had sleepless nights due to the recent shelling,” said Mohammad Aslam, a local resident. “Most of the houses here are made of wood so fragile that even a minor explosion can destroy them in seconds.”
Another resident, Mohammad Araf, shared how during periods of heavy shelling, families would huddle together in a single concrete house, seeking protection. “These temporary bunkers give us a sense of security, but we hope the government constructs permanent concrete bunkers in the future,” he said.
Interestingly, the construction of these bunkers has also offered a livelihood opportunity for many locals, most of whom are otherwise dependent on employment with the Army or other border-related activities. “We are grateful to the administration. Not only are they giving us a shield against danger, but also a chance to earn a living,” said one local worker.
Residents pointed out that they were previously not considered part of a high-risk border area. However, following the recent skirmishes and recognising the Nowgam sector’s proximity to the LoC, the authorities finally initiated protective measures.
Notably, Rising Kashmir was the first newspaper to reach out to the residents of the Nowgam sector during earlier tensions. At the time, the people voiced a single pressing concern, if a war-like situation were to erupt, they had no shelter. Taking serious note of this issue highlighted in a previous report, the administration has now responded by starting the construction of bunkers at appropriate locations.
The construction of these community bunkers marks a crucial step in enhancing civilian safety in border areas. Locals now look forward to more durable, concrete structures that can offer long-term protection in the event of future escalations.