Debris believed to be the remains of a shell that exploded in Dal Lake during Operation Sindoor has been recovered during a cleaning drive. The discovery was made public on September 21, 2025. Following the recovery, the shell remains were promptly sent for examination.

Operation Sindoor occurred after the Pahalgam attack on April 22, which resulted in 26 fatalities. On May 10, loud explosions were heard in Srinagar, and a missile-like object landed deep inside Dal Lake. Smoke was seen billowing from the surface of the lake when the object landed. On the same day as the shell fragment was found, another suspected object was recovered from Lasjan, located on the outskirts of the city.

The incident on May 10 caused considerable concern and prompted a thorough investigation to determine the nature of the object and the circumstances surrounding the explosions. The recent recovery of the shell remains is expected to aid in this investigation. Authorities are hoping that the examination of the debris will provide valuable insights into the type of ordnance involved, its origin, and the potential impact of the explosion on the lake's ecosystem.

The recovery of the shell fragment highlights the lingering presence of explosive remnants in the region, even years after Operation Sindoor. It also underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to clear such hazards and ensure the safety of the local population and the environment. The cleaning drive during which the debris was found is part of a broader initiative to remove waste and pollutants from Dal Lake, a popular tourist destination and a vital source of livelihood for many residents.

The incident serves as a reminder of the region's turbulent past and the challenges of maintaining peace and security in the area. The discovery has prompted renewed calls for increased vigilance and proactive measures to prevent future incidents. Local authorities are working with security agencies to enhance surveillance and implement stricter regulations on the storage and handling of explosives.

The examination of the recovered shell remains is currently underway, and further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses. The findings will be crucial in determining the appropriate course of action to mitigate any potential risks and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.