Pathankot: A live bomb shell was found in the UBDC (Upper Bari Doab Canal) near Sujanpur in Punjab’s Pathankot district, triggering an alert among security agencies on Saturday.
The suspicious object was first spotted by a local resident who was returning home from work. After noticing what appeared to be a missile-like object submerged in the canal, he alerted other people in the area and contacted the police through the 112 emergency helpline.
Following the information, a Sujanpur police team reached the spot. An Army team and bomb disposal personnel were also called in, while the area was secured as a precaution.
How Was The Bomb Shell Found In Pathankot?
According to eyewitness Mohan Lal, a resident of Shahpur Gate in Sujanpur, he was returning home after completing his factory shift when he stopped near the canal.
While washing his hands, he noticed a suspicious object partially submerged in the water. The object appeared to resemble a missile or bomb shell, prompting him to immediately alert the authorities.
Police personnel led by ASI Jaspal Singh subsequently reached the spot and cordoned off the area.
What Did Pathankot Police Say?
Pathankot SSP Manpreet Singh said that a bomb shell had been found in the UBDC canal and that it appeared to be old.
According to the police, the shell may have been carried to the location by the strong flow of water at some point and became visible after the water level dropped.
The police informed the Army’s bomb disposal team, which is expected to take the shell into its custody and safely dispose of it.
Army Sources Say Shell Is Still Live
While the shell appears to be old, Army sources have reportedly confirmed that it is still active and potentially dangerous.
Officials have stressed that it should not be touched or moved without following the required procedures.
The police will formally communicate with the Army regarding the recovery. Following this, the Army’s 103 Engineering Wing is expected to be deployed at the site.
The shell will then be safely removed from the canal and destroyed through an appropriate procedure, which could involve rendering it safe or carrying out a controlled explosion.
Area Sealed As Security Precaution
Authorities have kept the area secured to prevent anyone from approaching the suspected explosive.
Bomb disposal personnel are assessing the situation, while the Army and police are coordinating the next steps.
The discovery has prompted heightened attention in Pathankot, a strategically important border district, though officials have not indicated that the shell’s discovery is linked to any recent security incident.
