Live mortar recovered near Khandajan river, safely defused by army team

A mortar shell was spotted on Sunday by local residents in an eroded area of the Khandajan river near the old firing range in Bimalanagar village, under the jurisdiction of Nagrijuli police outpost.

In a recent incident that underscored the importance of community vigilance and rapid response from authorities, a live mortar shell was discovered by local residents in Assam’s Tamulpur district. The find, which could have posed a significant threat, was quickly reported, leading to its safe neutralization by a dedicated army team. This event highlights the often-unseen dangers that can surface in unexpected locations and the critical role of coordinated efforts in ensuring public safety. The discovery itself serves as a powerful reminder of how historical remnants, such as discarded ordnance from past activities, can unexpectedly reappear, especially in areas prone to natural erosion.

The Discovery of the Mortar Shell Defused

On a quiet Sunday, residents near the Khandajan river in Bimalanagar village, a location historically known for its old firing range, stumbled upon the unexploded ordnance. The live 81 mm mortar shell was found in an area affected by river erosion, suggesting it might have been uncovered by the natural shifting of the riverbed. Recognizing the potential danger, the alert citizens did not hesitate to inform the Nagrijuli police outpost in Tamulpur district immediately. Their prompt action was the first crucial step in preventing a possible catastrophe, demonstrating exemplary civic responsibility. This immediate notification allowed authorities to take control of the situation swiftly, securing the area to prevent any accidental detonation or public interference. The swift communication chain, from local residents to law enforcement, proved instrumental in managing the initial phase of this critical incident.

Immediate Response and Surveillance

Upon receiving the report, local police, aided by personnel from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), wasted no time in securing the site. The live mortar was placed under continuous surveillance throughout Sunday, ensuring that no one inadvertently approached the dangerous device. This round-the-clock monitoring was vital in maintaining public safety until a specialized team could arrive. The presence of law enforcement and security forces not only deterred curious onlookers but also provided a crucial perimeter of safety, allowing for a controlled environment around the potentially volatile object. The careful and methodical approach taken by the police and SSB ensured that the initial containment was effective, setting the stage for the successful resolution of the crisis.

The Safe Defusal of the Mortar Shell Defused

The critical phase of the operation began on Monday when a highly trained bomb disposal team from the Changsari military station arrived on the scene. With precision and expertise, the army team undertook the delicate task of defusing the live 81 mm mortar. Diganta Kumar Choudhury, the Senior Superintendent of Police for Tamulpur district, confirmed that the operation was successfully completed by Monday noon. The defusal process, a testament to the specialized skills of the military personnel, was carried out meticulously, prioritizing the safety of everyone involved and the surrounding community. The successful defusal of the mortar shell defused this significant threat, transforming a hazardous situation into a safely resolved incident.

• Professional Execution: The army team’s expertise was paramount in handling the volatile device.
• Safety Protocols: All necessary safety and security measures were rigorously implemented to ensure public safety throughout the operation.
• Inter-Agency Coordination: The presence of police, SSB personnel, and the local Gram Pradhan highlighted effective coordination among various governmental and community bodies.

Community Commendation and Future Preparedness

The successful defusal operation garnered widespread appreciation from the local residents. They commended the district administration for its alertness, rapid response, and effective coordination throughout the incident. Such swift and professional handling of a dangerous situation not only instills confidence in the public but also reinforces the importance of emergency preparedness. While rare, discoveries like these serve as crucial reminders for authorities to maintain robust protocols for handling unexploded ordnance and for communities to remain vigilant. The positive outcome underscores the benefit of strong community-police relations and the effectiveness of well-drilled emergency response teams. The effective handling of the mortar shell defused a crisis and built greater trust within the community.

• Public Trust: The efficient response enhanced public trust in local authorities and military forces.
• Role of Vigilance: The incident underscores the continuous need for public vigilance, especially in areas with historical military significance.
• Importance of Training: It highlights the critical importance of specialized training for bomb disposal units and emergency responders.

The incident in Tamulpur district, culminating in the safe defusal of the mortar shell defused, stands as a clear example of effective crisis management. It showcases how a combination of community awareness, swift reporting, and expert intervention can turn a potentially disastrous situation into a well-managed operation, ensuring the safety and well-being of all.