Kupwara blast claims soldier’s life near LoC

December 16, 2025

Srinagar: A soldier was killed in an explosion near the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district, officials said on Tuesday. The incident occurred on Monday in the Putaha Khan Gali area of Trehgam during road construction activity.

Soldier identified as JAKLI Havaldar
The deceased soldier has been identified as Havaldar Zubair Ahmad of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI). He was critically injured in the blast and rushed to a military hospital in Baramulla’s Drugmulla area, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

LoC hazards and mine risks
Officials said the explosion was accidental, with landmines—often displaced by rain and snow and known as “drift mines”—posing a constant risk during patrols and construction near the LoC. The LoC remains heavily guarded by the Army as part of anti-infiltration measures, especially challenging during harsh winter conditions.