Operation Trashi-I Kishtwar Gunfight has entered a decisive phase as Indian security forces continue a large-scale counter-terror operation in the forested areas of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district. Despite harsh winter conditions and heavy snowfall, troops remain on high alert and are pressing ahead with search and cordon activities to eliminate terrorists believed to be hiding in the region.

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The operation, which began earlier this month, reflects the growing focus on preventing militant groups from re-establishing bases in remote mountainous areas. Security officials say sustained pressure is being maintained to ensure that no escape routes remain open for the militants.

Fresh Exchange of Fire in Chatroo Area

The latest gunfight occurred late Sunday night in the Janseer–Kandiwar forest area of the Chatroo belt in Kishtwar district. A joint search party consisting of the Indian Army, Para (Special Forces), and the Jammu and Kashmir Police Special Operations Group was carrying out a combing operation when terrorists opened fire.

Security forces responded swiftly, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire. During the encounter, two to three terrorists are believed to have managed to flee under the cover of darkness, using the dense forest and difficult terrain to their advantage. No casualties were reported among security forces in this particular incident.

Following the gunfight, the entire area was sealed, and additional troops were rushed to strengthen the cordon. Search operations resumed at first light, with forces carefully scanning the forests and nearby ridgelines.

How Operation Trashi-I Began

Operation Trashi-I was launched on January 18 after intelligence agencies received specific information about the movement of terrorists in the Kishtwar region. The first encounter took place near Sonnar village in the Mandral–Singhpora area, where security forces came under heavy fire.

During that initial clash, eight security personnel were injured, and one of them later succumbed to injuries. The incident underlined the seriousness of the threat and prompted authorities to expand the operation across a wider area.

Subsequent encounters were reported on January 22 and January 24. In the January 24 encounter, a Pakistani terrorist linked to the banned Jaish-e-Mohammad outfit was killed. These repeated clashes indicate that more than one militant group has been operating in the forests, making the mission complex and prolonged.

Harsh Weather Adds to the Challenge

One of the biggest obstacles for security forces has been the extreme winter weather. Several parts of Kishtwar district have received more than two feet of snowfall, making movement slow and risky.

Deep snow, freezing temperatures, and slippery slopes increase the danger of avalanches and accidents. However, troops equipped with winter gear and specialized equipment have continued their advance.

Officers on the ground say that operations are being conducted with great caution to ensure the safety of personnel while maintaining pressure on terrorists. Medical teams and evacuation facilities have been kept on standby in case of emergencies.

Expanded Search and High-Tech Support

To prevent terrorists from escaping, the search area has been widened along the strategic Kishtwar–Sinthan road. This road connects several remote regions and could be used by militants to move between districts.

Security agencies have deployed additional companies to block possible exit routes. Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are being used to monitor large stretches of forest and detect suspicious movement from the air.

Sniffer dogs are also part of the operation, helping teams track footprints and identify hideouts. Officials say that modern technology has become an essential part of counter-terror operations, especially in mountainous and forested terrain where visibility is limited.

Role of Elite Forces in the Operation

The involvement of Para (Special Forces) highlights the seriousness of Operation Trashi-I. These elite units of the Indian Army are specially trained for counter-insurgency, jungle warfare, and high-altitude operations.

They are working closely with local police units who possess detailed knowledge of the terrain and village routes. This coordination between central forces and local police has been crucial in tracking terrorist movement and gathering real-time intelligence.

Senior officers regularly review the situation and adjust strategies based on ground reports.

Connection with Earlier Kathua Operations

Security officials have confirmed that Operation Trashi-I is linked to earlier counter-terror actions in Kathua district. On January 16, three terrorist hideouts were busted in Kathua forests.

Recoveries from those hideouts included food supplies, ammunition, and other logistical materials. Several suspects were detained after Pakistani mobile numbers were found stored on their phones, pointing to cross-border links.

It is believed that militants who escaped from Kathua later moved towards the forests of Kishtwar, prompting the launch of Operation Trashi-I.

Strategic Importance of Kishtwar Region

Kishtwar lies in the Chenab Valley region of Jammu and Kashmir and is known for its rugged mountains, thick forests, and sparse population. While its geography makes it scenic, it also provides natural cover for militants.

In recent years, security forces have focused on preventing terrorists from using such areas as safe havens. Continuous operations like Trashi-I aim to deny militants the space needed to regroup, train, or plan attacks.

Operation Trashi-I Kishtwar Gunfight: Message from Security Agencies

Authorities have assured residents that every effort is being made to restore peace and ensure safety. People in nearby villages have been advised to report any suspicious activity and cooperate with security personnel.

Officials say that the operation will continue until all remaining terrorists in the area are neutralized. The sustained presence of troops, combined with intelligence-based actions, reflects the government’s firm stance against terrorism.

As Operation Trashi-I Kishtwar Gunfight moves forward, security forces remain determined to clear the forests of militant presence, even as they battle harsh weather and difficult terrain. Their efforts underline the commitment to maintaining stability and preventing any resurgence of terrorist activity in the region.