MUZAFFARABAD: Authorities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday ordered the closure of more than 1,000 religious schools for 10 days due to rising tensions with India following a deadly attack in Pahalgam. The decision, aimed at avoiding potential military conflict, was confirmed by Hafiz Nazeer Ahmed of the Department of Religious Affairs.
A source in the department said the move was triggered by fears of escalation at the Line of Control, where around 1.5 million residents live. Locals near the LoC have started preparing underground bunkers as a precaution.
Residents expressed anxiety over their children’s safety, with many restricting outdoor movement. In Chakothi, shopkeeper Iftikhar Ahmad Mir said families had been living in constant fear for a week.
Emergency services in Muzaffarabad have launched training sessions in schools to prepare students for possible attacks. The sessions cover first aid, fire safety, and evacuation procedures.
Thirteen schools have participated in the training so far, and civil defence officials plan to expand coverage to more institutions near the border. Trainer Abdul Basit Moughal said schools are often the first to be affected in emergencies, making early preparation vital.
