AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Srinagar, January 24, 2013 (PPI-OT): Panic has gripped Kashmir after the occupation authorities issued an advisory in local newspapers warning residents to be prepared for a possible nuclear war. The advisory by the Disaster Response Force of the territory details the steps one should take in case a nuclear, biological or chemical war breaks out in the territory- stoking fears of a possible war between Pakistan and India as it comes amid simmering tension on the Line of Control (LoC).
“Construct/identify basements in your residence where the whole family can stay for a fortnight (before nuclear war). In case no basement is available in the open space in front of your house construct bunkers as in conventional war (as some protection is better than no protection)”, said the advertisement issued in local newspapers by Yoginder Kaul, inspector general of police (civil defence, SDRF and home guards).
In case of biological warfare, the SDRF has asked people not to allow open pools/collection of water in surrounding areas. IGP civil defence, SDRF and home guards have tried to play down the issue saying the advisory is a routine exercise aimed at creating awareness among the people about the disasters whether natural or manmade.
However, the authorities in occupied Kashmir were amused by people’s reaction to the advisory, which it considers routine. Local officials said the advisory was routine and that it did not signal new concerns about a nuclear attack in the region. Fayyaz Ahmed, a resident of Srinagar, said that the notice “is fuelling an atmosphere of fear”. “Educating people is fine but not [in] this brazen way,” he added.
For more information, contact:
Kashmir Media Service
Email: info@kmsnews.org
Phone: 92-51-4435548, 4435549
Fax: 92-51-4861736