We’re Tired of War—We Just Want to Work in ‘Peace’ : Uri Shopkeepers
WS/VP Special Correspondent
Over 20 people died in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir during days of missile, drone, artillery, and bombing attacks that nearly escalated into an all-out war. However, the ceasefire was holding as of Saturday midnight despite early alleged violations.
Signs of life and activity slowly returned to normal in the border villages of the Union Territory. Yet, residents of these villages—who had been evacuated to safer places due to cross-border shelling by Pakistan—were advised not to rush back home, as the areas still needed to be sanitized and cleared of unexploded shells.
With the guns falling silent on Saturday night, the people of Jammu and Kashmir woke up to a calm and quiet morning, unlike previous days when the sounds of heavy blasts, sirens, and explosions had tormented them.
As in other parts of Kashmir, life began returning to normal in Uri, a border town in the northern region.
Qadeer, a local shopkeeper, could hardly believe he was reopening his shop after four days of intense bombing and missile attacks.
“I still can’t believe it’s silent—no noises of bombs or shells—and I’m able to open my shop,” he said. “I’m really happy with the ceasefire agreement. I hope this is the end now and that both nations think about us, the worst affected by this shelling for decades.”
Sameer, another shopkeeper, shared similar sentiments with The Web Story/The Varmul Post.
“I’m happy—not wholeheartedly, but with the decision both countries made regarding the ceasefire agreement,” he said. “I hope we can sleep tonight without the sound of shelling, which has separated us from our loved ones and left us half-dead.”
Expressing hope for lasting peace, he said,”May peace prevail, and may we soon see people return to their normal lives. This deserted market—when will it be bustling again? We’re just waiting for that day. I hope it stays peaceful now.” He added.
Amid the lingering uncertainty that threatens to disrupt the calm—especially given the cross-border shelling that creates a war-like situation—people in other markets also emerged to enjoy the lull.
In Baramulla, Sopore, Kupwara, Bandipora, and other areas, small stalls selling Tujj (meatballs) reopened after days of closure. From the smoke of artillery-struck debris just yesterday to the smoke of barbecues today, people rediscovered joy after days of tension that had forced shopkeepers to close early.
