India: Violent clashes disrupt train service in North Kashmir Sep. 13

Event

Security forces clashed with Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants in Sopore (North Kashmir) on Thursday, September 13; at least three militants have reportedly been killed and nine security personnel have been injured. Authorities have cordoned off the area and suspended train services between Srinagar and Baramulla for security purposes. According to local media, the militants had been in hiding after violence broke on Wednesday, September 12. It has not been reported when train services will resume as of Thursday evening (local time). Additional clashes and related transportation disruptions are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

According to local police, one of the JeM militants killed on Thursday was involved with the 2017 IED attack in Sopore which killed four policemen.

Insurgents (locals or Pakistani nationals) have been fighting Indian rule in Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. Some 70,000 people have died and many more have been injured in related violence, uprisings, and military crackdowns.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate travel disruptions, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably including areas along the Line of Control (LoC), due to the significant risk of violence.