The Indian government announced it would build thousands of underground hideouts or concrete bunkers along the de facto border with Pakistan in the Kashmir region. The bunker will be a safe haven for the population in the event of a firefight between the two neighbors.
To protect 54,000 people in towns and villages near one of the world's most dangerous frontiers, the Indian government funded the creation of 372 bunkers, each of which could accommodate 40 people. And, there is a 4,918 bunkers development plan, designed for 8 people. The shelter located in the Rajouri district, made of mud-coated concrete.
Local judge Abdul Sattar said he felt confident the new bunker would keep local people from migrating or evacuating.
"If people do not want to migrate from the area because of the war, they can inhabit public bunkers in a safer place," he said, as quoted by Russia Today on February 6, 2018. This news also reported Indian Express media.
According to District Development Commissioner Rajouri Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, as reported by Indian Express, the construction of this bunker for the benefit of society.
However, the locals express their diverse opinions, both the pros and cons regarding this project.
"The construction of such bunkers enhances the security of the locals because whenever shootings occur we can hide inside," said Jeet Chowdary villager.
But Muhammad Lateef, a resident of a different village, says it is better for the Indian government to move the civilian population from the dangerous areas of the dispute.
"Instead of building bunkers, it would be better if the authorities gave us alternative land far beyond the border so we could feed ourselves and our cattle," Lateef said.
The conflict in Kashmir began shortly after the separation of India and Pakistan in 1947 and continues to this day. India and Pakistan had fought over Kashmir territory in 1947, 1965 and 1999.
Cross-border shootings and fighting have killed more than 20 people since mid-November. There are estimates of border conflicts between the two countries will increase in 2018.
The conflict has raised wider concerns for a nuclear war. Both countries, both India and Pakistan have nuclear weapons.