Operation Akhal, a counter-terrorism operation in the Akhal forest area of Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district, has entered its ninth day. Tragically, the Indian Army has confirmed that two soldiers have been killed during the ongoing encounter.

The operation commenced on August 1st, following intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the dense forest. An initial exchange of fire occurred last Friday, after which the operation was temporarily paused overnight. However, the security forces tightened the cordon and deployed additional reinforcements to the area. Firing resumed the next day, resulting in the killing of two terrorists. As of now, the identities and group affiliations of the slain terrorists remain unconfirmed.

Security forces, including the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), continue to engage the remaining militants believed to be hiding in the dense forest. The difficult terrain, characterized by thick foliage, caves, and boulders, coupled with recent heavy rains and low visibility, has posed significant challenges to the security forces. Drones, thermal imaging, and high-tech surveillance equipment are being utilized to track down the remaining terrorists.

Senior officials, including J&K Police chief Nalin Prabhat and Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, are closely monitoring the situation. The operation is described as one of the longest ongoing operations in the history of insurgency in the region.

Throughout Saturday night, there were reports of intense explosions and intermittent firing from the encounter site, as security forces tightened the cordon around suspected locations. Additional troops have been deployed to prevent any escapes, and a strict cordon remains in place as forces attempt to neutralize the terrorists.

In addition to the two fatalities, several security personnel have sustained injuries during the operation. At least nine army personnel were reported injured as of August 7th. Injured soldiers have been evacuated to hospitals for treatment.

The Border Road Organization (BRO) and GREF teams are working to restore connectivity in the area. Efforts to maintain road access have been hampered by repeated damage, possibly due to heavy water flow impacting the Bhagirathi river's course. Aerial support, including Air Force's Chinook and Mi-17 helicopters, is being utilized to move machinery and personnel.