Life in the border districts of Barmer and Jaisalmer is gradually returning to normal just two days after India and Pakistan reached a mutual understanding to halt hostilities, bringing much-needed relief to residents affected by the recent escalation.
Morning visuals from Barmer showed open markets and bustling streets, with locals resuming their daily routines. “Everything is normal. Shops open as usual and close around 7:30 pm. Our livelihood hasn’t been affected,” said a local from Jaisalmer.
The tensions had peaked early Saturday when a missile from Pakistan landed in an agricultural field in Jaisalmer district, prompting swift action from security forces, who safely defused the unexploded device. The missile landed in the field of Puran Singh Bhati, a former chairman of the Land Development Bank, who described hearing three loud explosions early that morning.
“We’re proud of our Indian armed forces and trust PM Modi will take appropriate steps,” Bhati said, adding that there were no casualties or damage, thanks to the rapid response of authorities.
Despite the return to calm, the Jaisalmer police continue to recover suspicious items and unexploded ammunition in some areas. SP Sudhir Choudhary urged residents to avoid such objects and report them to authorities instead of sharing them on social media.
So far, four suspects have been arrested, and 12 individuals found making cross-border calls are also under investigation.
India has stated that Pakistan violated the DGMO-level agreement by initiating unprovoked firing and drone intrusions, prompting India to respond robustly. However, in the wake of the ceasefire, both border communities and officials are hoping the fragile peace holds.