Revived Terror Launch Pads Detected by BSF in Jammu Sector Post-Operation Sindoor

The Border Security Force (BSF) has identified the reactivation of nine Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror launch pads across the international border in Pakistan, directly opposite the Jammu sector. This development comes months after these sites were dismantled during Operation Sindoor, as reported by officials on Monday.

Recent BSF intelligence indicates renewed activity at these launch pads, which militants typically use as points for staging infiltration attempts. In response, security has been intensified in susceptible border villages, with increased surveillance and control measures aimed at thwarting potential cross-border infiltrations.

The reactivated locations include Chobara, Daluwali, Mastpur, Bajra Garhi, Sarjwal, and Jhang Bajwat. Intelligence suggests movement at these sites, which had been inactive for approximately four to five months following Operation Sindoor. Some launch pads have reportedly reappeared within five kilometers of their original sites, strategically relocated beyond the range of Indian artillery.

Operation Sindoor, initiated by the Indian Army on May 7, was a critical response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 civilian deaths. The operation targeted terror infrastructure and select military positions in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, culminating in a ceasefire on May 10. During this operation, Indian artillery successfully destroyed several enemy posts, including the Mastpur launch pad.

Officials have clarified that these reactivated launch pads differ from the terror camps directly targeted during the air and artillery strikes of Operation Sindoor. BSF troops have observed JeM operatives regrouping at these locations, attempting to utilize them for infiltration. However, effective area control and counter-infiltration grids on the Indian side have thus far thwarted these attempts.

In the last two weeks, the BSF’s Jammu frontier, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, has conducted surprise inspections in over two dozen border villages. On December 14-15, senior BSF officials assessed the security situation, with Praveen Kumar, Director General of the BSF, personally examining counter-infiltration measures in the Samba and Kathua sectors, which face significant JeM presence across the border.

The developments have been communicated to Delhi headquarters. A senior officer highlighted a discernible trend over the past two months, noting that after an extended period of inactivity, JeM militants have begun reoccupying these launch pads. “Their goal is to infiltrate cadres, but sustained vigilance and patrols have ensured their failure,” the officer remarked.

The Mastpur sector exemplifies this pattern. Although the original pad was destroyed on May 7, suspicious activities have resurfaced nearby, likely positioned beyond artillery range. Security forces have pinpointed hotspots such as Ramgarh in the Samba district, increasing surveillance and ambush deployments.

Joint operations have intensified in the Samba, Kathua, and RS Pura sectors, with teams utilizing explosive detectors to examine vulnerable areas and suspected hideouts. These efforts include the collaboration of the Jammu and Kashmir Police's Special Operations Group (SOG) to enhance detection and response capabilities.

To bolster local resilience, village defense volunteers are being trained swiftly. In the past week, the BSF’s Jammu sector has trained over two dozen volunteers across four villages in Paragwal, Kathua, and Samba. Small groups are receiving advanced training in weapons handling and accurate firing skills for self-defense and timely response.

While security forces remain the primary line of defense, officials emphasize that empowered local volunteers provide essential support during crises. The resurgence of launch pads underlines JeM’s persistent efforts despite the impact of Operation Sindoor, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and a comprehensive counter-infiltration strategy to maintain border security amid ongoing challenges.