After India carried out strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir early Wednesday, many villagers living near the International Border started moving to safer locations out of fear.
Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma asked residents not to panic, saying there was no official order to evacuate. She assured that the administration is fully prepared and has sent senior officials to calm and guide people.
Still, villagers from areas like Tendi Wala, Kalu Wala, Gatti Rajo Ke, Jhugge Hazara, Navi Gatti Rajo Ke, Chandiwala, Basti Bhanewali, and Jallo Ke were seen packing food, clothes, and valuables. Some used tractors, bullock carts, and even motorcycles to move.
One resident said his relatives convinced him to leave fearing a “war-like situation.” Kakku Singh from Bhambha Haji village took his daughters and their families from Kaluwala—a village surrounded by the Sutlej River and Pakistan—to his home.
Pachho Bai from Tendi Wala, whose house is just 2 km from the border, said she was worried for her family and planned to move them to a relative’s house. Ranjit Singh from Gatti Rajo Ke also decided to send his children away for safety.
However, some villagers decided to stay. Surjeet Singh from Tendi Wala said, “We are ready to support our soldiers as the first line of defence.”
In Fazilka, near the border, elderly residents remembered past wars. Ojha Singh from Pakka Chisti village recalled fleeing during the 1965 and 1971 wars. At Mohar Jamsher, some villagers moved their valuables but decided to wait for official instructions before leaving.
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