Suhail Khan
URI, June 21 – Peaceful celebrations marked International Yoga Day in the border town of Uri in Baramulla district, North Kashmir, as locals and the Army came together to commemorate the event along the Line of Control (LOC).
As the guns fell silent, a sense of relief permeated the region, as students and residents participated in the yoga day festivities.
Bashir Ahmad, one of the participants, expressed his delight at practicing yoga in such a serene environment. He emphasized that this event conveyed a powerful message of unity, peace, and harmony.
Bashir also highlighted the aim of promoting the physical and mental health benefits of yoga among the people living in the region.
Uri, historically a flashpoint in the conflict between India and Pakistan, has experienced numerous ceasefire violations in the past. However, since the ceasefire agreement reached between the two countries in February 2021, a tangible peace has taken hold in the area.
Ashraf Ahmed Shiekh , a local resident, shared his perspective, stating that times have changed and the bilateral agreement has brought relief to the community. He expressed joy at witnessing the happiness on the faces of children, who were greatly affected by the conflict.
Ashraf added that they are now moving toward a brighter future, filled with hope and the aspiration to become responsible citizens.
Sajad Ahmad, another local resident, highlighted the positive impact of the ceasefire agreement on tourism and the local economy. He mentioned the easing of movement restrictions, as passes are no longer required for travel within the border town.
Sajad also mentioned the growing number of visitors from Kashmir and other parts of India, signaling a promising boost in tourism.
While acknowledging the benefits of the ceasefire, Sajad emphasized the need for accelerated development to ensure the region’s security and prosperity.
Irshad Ahmad, a local trekker, expressed his relief at the respite brought by the ceasefire. He noted the increasing number of tourists and trekkers visiting the villages daily, enjoying activities such as night camping.
Ahmad shared his delight at being able to explore the region freely and appreciate its natural beauty, which was previously hampered by shelling from across the border.
The Government of India and the local administration have undertaken significant infrastructural projects in the border areas, including road, hospital, and school upgrades. Special schemes have been introduced to benefit farmers, and loans have been provided to empower the youth.
The administration has also conducted special recruitment drives for the border region’s youth. Although there are still areas that require immediate attention, the local administration is committed to bridging the development gap at the earliest.
The residents are grateful for the opportunity to lead normal lives and hope for a future free from ceasefire violations.
Commander of the Uri Brigade, Brigadier Kuldeep Dahiya, recently announced that there are no restrictions on tourists visiting Kaman Post, which has been declared a new tourist destination.
The Army has set up an office in Uri town to assist travelers and address any issues they may face.
Sub District Magistrate Uri, Jatin Kishor, affirmed that tourists do not require any permission from the civil administration to visit Kaman Post.
Although some formalities may be necessary from the Army’s perspective, the place is open for all to explore.
Previously, the Kaman Aman Setu bridge had been closed in 2018 due to shelling along the Line of Control. However, following the ceasefire agreement and the prevailing peaceful environment, Kaman Post has undergone a transformation. New features, such as a 60-foot-high national flag, binocular-equipped viewpoints, a kiosk offering local items, and a new resting place, have been added to enhance the experience.
