Undefined Explosive Device (UED) event in Ladakh, Kargil area, India on Sun 16th April 2023

Kargil, April 16: A tragic incident occurred today near the Astro Football ground at Kurbathang, where an unbusted bomb from the 1999 war exploded, killing one teenager and injuring two others. The three boys, identified as Ali Naqi, Muntazir Mehdi, and Baqir, were all residents of Kharzong, Pashkum. Councillor Pashkum, Kacho Mohd Feroz told Voice of Ladakh that the boys were going to the football ground near which they stumbled upon the bomb. The explosion caused serious injuries to Ali Naqi and Muntazir Mehdi, who were immediately rushed to the New District Hospital at Khurbathang for medical treatment. Unfortunately, Baqir succumbed to his injuries and was declared dead during treatment. Councillor Pashkum has called on the administration to take action in response to the tragic explosion that occurred in Kurbathang. In a statement, the councillor requested that the issue be raised with the Army to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The councillor also stressed the need for immediate action to sanitize the Kurbathang area of any explosives or hazardous materials. This, he stated, is necessary to ensure the safety and security of residents in the area, particularly children who are often at risk of encountering such objects while playing in open spaces. The incident has raised concerns over the safety and security of the people living in the area, especially children who often play in open fields and grounds. The authorities have been urged to take immediate measures to clear the area of any unexploded bombs and ensure the safety of the residents. The incident has also brought back memories of the 1999 war, which was fought between India and Pakistan in the Kargil region. It serves as a reminder of the long-lasting effects of wars and the importance of ensuring that such incidents do not occur in the future.