During a routine cleaning operation in Dal Lake, officials from the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) made a significant discovery: remnants of a shell linked to Operation Sindoor, India’s military response following the Pahalgam attack on April 22. This event, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives, prompted a decisive military action in May 2025.
The shell fragments were found near Oont Kadal, a location previously affected by another incident involving a missile-like object that landed in the lake on May 10, 2025. That event caused explosions felt across Srinagar, highlighting the potential dangers lingering in the area. Following the discovery, the remnants were swiftly taken to the nearest police station for examination and necessary follow-up measures.
The recovery included parts of a Pakistani Fatah-1 series rocket. Preliminary reports indicate that this is the same type of rocket reportedly used in attempts to target the Srinagar airbase, as suggested by various social media posts. Images and claims circulating online assert that this missile was found in a remote area rather than close to any military facility.
Authorities emphasized that the ongoing cleanup and recovery efforts are part of a larger initiative to preserve Dal Lake, which remains a critical cultural and tourist destination in Srinagar. These actions also underscore the importance of public safety and the environmental management of the area.
As the recovery highlights the past tensions between India and Pakistan, officials are reminded of the need for strict vigilance regarding unexploded ordnance and historical remnants that could pose a hazard to both residents and visitors. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the region’s complex security landscape.