Bandipora, April 26 (KNS): Residents of the border areas in Gurez Valley, North Kashmir's Bandipora district, have expressed deep concern and fear following the recent attack in Pahalgam.
Speaking to the media, Mohammad Ismail, President of the Traders' Association Gurez, said that after the ceasefire agreement, people had begun living their lives in peace.
"We were finally experiencing peace after decades of cross-border shelling that devastated thousands of lives," he said.
"We hope both nations choose the path of dialogue and peace instead of conflict, so that the people on both sides of the border are not forced to suffer again."
Ismail recalled the hardships faced by border residents during periods of shelling, when many were forced to abandon their homes.
District Development Council (DDC) member from Tulail, Ajaz Ahmad, echoed similar concerns, noting that border residents are always among the first to feel the impact of such incidents.
"We are hopeful that normalcy will return soon, that tourists will once again visit our beautiful border areas, and that our youth will not be adversely affected," he said.
Meanwhile, an official confirmed that precautionary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of residents.
"These measures are temporary and will be eased once the situation stabilizes," the official added.
Locals continue to pray for lasting peace and stability in the region. (KNS)