Chenab Valley Security Alert: Army and SOG Intensify High-Altitude Anti-Terror Operations Amid Sub-Zero Temperatures

BHADERWAH 31 December :- Braving bone-chilling sub-zero temperatures and treacherous snow-bound terrain, the Indian Army’s Rashtriya Rifles and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police have significantly stepped up their vigil across the Chenab Valley to thwart potential terror threats during New Year celebrations.

Security officials confirmed on Wednesday that massive counter-terrorist operations have been scaled up since last week in the upper reaches of Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban, as well as adjoining forest belts in Udhampur, Reasi, and Kathua.

Intelligence assessments indicate that approximately 30 to 35 Pakistani terrorists are currently active within these dense mountain forests, prompting a strategic push to flush them out following recent heavy snowfall in the higher reaches.

The heightened security measures come amid specific warnings that terror groups active in the Doda-Kishtwar circuit might exploit the extreme cold and dense winter fog to disrupt public peace. Experts suggest that as mountain passes close due to snow, terrorists are likely to shift toward lower-altitude areas closer to human settlements, making constant surveillance of the middle and upper mountainous reaches vital.

Operations have now extended to the Bhalessa region bordering Himachal Pradesh, with troops maintaining a persistent presence in the wilderness.

Local residents and leaders, including Bhaderwah MLA Daleep Singh Parihar, have lauded the unmatched dedication of the personnel who remain stationed in the high-altitude “cold desert” conditions to ensure that the civilian population can welcome 2026 in safety and peace.