In the wake of a devastating attack on Sunday in Gagangir village, which claimed the lives of seven individuals, including a doctor, authorities have launched a significant security operation. Nearly 40 individuals have been rounded up for questioning as part of the investigation, although no arrests have been made thus far.

The attack, which marks a concerning escalation in violence, specifically targeted employees of a private infrastructure company working on the Z-Morh tunnel project along the Srinagar-Leh highway. This incident is particularly alarming as it is the first time that terrorists have struck at workers involved in such critical development projects in the region.

Sources indicate that the two assailants, probably Pakistani terrorists are believed to have infiltrated through the Gurez sector of Bandipora and have since fled into the dense forests nearby. Security forces are actively conducting searches in these areas, with hopes of apprehending the attackers soon. CCTV footage from the project site has reportedly captured images of the terrorists, aiding ongoing investigations.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited Gagangir a day after the attack, where he met with officials and chaired a high level security review meeting today at Rajbhawan Srinagar. He emphasized the need to bolster the security grid to prevent future incidents and ensure rapid social and economic development in the region.

The Lieutenant Governor asked the J&K Police officials to ensure stringent measures to tighten the security grid around key infrastructure projects and construction camps for safety of workers. He stressed upon establishment of mechanisms for regular coordination meetings with project implementing agencies.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the police to conduct security audit of infrastructure projects, round-the-clock nakas at the strategic points, night patrolling and area domination. He said the police must ensure robust security and intelligence grid and intensified, well-planned joint operation with army and other security agencies to eliminate terrorism.

In light of the attack, non-local laborers across the Kashmir Valley are expressing fear for their safety, prompting some to leave the area. However, police have assured these workers of comprehensive security measures to protect them as they continue their livelihoods.

Local residents have taken to the streets in protest against the brutal attack on unarmed workers. In Kangan, dozens of students and social activists rallied, demanding swift and decisive action against those responsible for this heinous act.