Kishtwar, April 25, KNT: A loud explosion-like sound reported from the remote Paddar Valley in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district triggered panic among locals, with plumes of smoke seen rising from a forested hillside, prompting an immediate response from security agencies.
The incident, reported on late Friday night, was initially feared to be an aircraft crash after the sound echoed across multiple villages. However, authorities later clarified that no such crash had taken place, ruling out early speculation that an Indian Air Force aircraft was involved.
The development assumes significance as the blast-like sound was followed by visible smoke in a rugged and sparsely inhabited forest area, raising concerns among locals about the nature of the incident. The absence of immediate clarity, coupled with the difficult terrain, delayed on-ground verification and allowed rumors to spread rapidly.
Police and other security personnel were dispatched to the area to ascertain the cause of the incident. Officials said reaching the exact location has been challenging due to the mountainous terrain and lack of direct road access.
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“There is no confirmation of any aircraft crash in the area,” officials said, adding that teams have been sent to investigate the source of the explosion-like sound and the subsequent smoke.
Local inhabitants reported hearing a “powerful blast” that reverberated across the valley, with some describing it as similar to an explosion. Shortly afterward, smoke was seen rising from a section of the forest, intensifying apprehension among people.
No casualties or damage to civilian property have been reported so far, according to preliminary information available with authorities.
The cause of the incident remains unclear, with officials maintaining that investigations are ongoing to determine whether it was a natural occurrence, an accidental explosion, or any other event.
The Paddar Valley, known for its difficult topography and limited connectivity, often poses logistical challenges for emergency response teams, especially in situations requiring rapid access to remote forested zones.
Authorities have urged locals not to pay heed to unverified reports circulating on social media and assured that accurate information will be shared once the investigation yields conclusive findings. [KNT]
