CRPF Establishes 43 High-Altitude Bases in J&K to Combat Terrorism

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has significantly bolstered its counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir by establishing 43 temporary operating bases (TOBs) in the region's higher reaches. This strategic deployment aims to effectively target and eliminate foreign terrorists who have increasingly shifted their operations to high-altitude areas, utilizing 'dhoks' (mud and stone huts) as hideouts. These 43 bases have been set up at altitudes exceeding 6,000 feet, with some operations extending as high as 8,900 feet. The move comes as a direct and crucial response to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam in April 2025, which resulted in the killing of 26 tourists. The first of these temporary bases was established in July 2025, with a substantial number concentrated along the critical Pahalgam-Tral-Harwan axis. Each temporary operating base typically houses between 16 to 25 CRPF troops, along with personnel from the local police, ensuring coordinated efforts against militant groups. The troops deployed in these challenging high-altitude environments are equipped with specialized gear, including tactical boots, winter jackets, sleeping bags, and satellite phones, to withstand the harsh weather and facilitate communication in remote areas. The establishment of these TOBs is part of a renewed strategy to flush out terrorists who have relocated from the Kashmir Valley floor to the upper reaches, aiming to sustain militant activities. This shift in terrorist tactics necessitated a corresponding adaptation in security force operations, leading to the creation of these forward operating positions. According to security officials, there are currently an estimated 100 foreign terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir, alongside a small number of local militants. A significant success stemming from this new strategy was 'Operation Mahadev'. Launched on May 22 as part of a security plan formulated after the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, this operation utilized one of the newly established temporary operating bases to track down and eliminate three terrorists responsible for the massacre. The operation in July 2025 led to the neutralization of these militants, demonstrating the effectiveness of the high-altitude bases in conducting targeted search and assault missions. Out of the 43 temporary bases, 26 have been strategically placed in the Kashmir region, while the remaining 17 are located in the Jammu area, covering a wide geographical expanse to address the regional distribution of militant threats. The CRPF has also conducted numerous 'Long Duration Operations' – 2,937 in total, with 879 in the Jammu region and 2,058 in the Kashmir Valley – to maintain dominance over the higher and mid-ranges, between 3,300 and 8,900 feet. These operations underscore the sustained effort by Indian security forces to ensure peace and security in the Union Territory, safeguarding both local residents and tourists. The emphasis on high-altitude operations reflects a proactive approach to counter the evolving nature of terrorism in the region, particularly the presence and movement of foreign elements seeking refuge in rugged terrain. The news has been widely reported by several credible Indian media outlets, including The Economic Times, News18, ETV Bharat, Rediff.com, and other agencies, all corroborating the details provided in The Hindu article and confirming the factual accuracy of the claims. The establishment of these bases represents a critical component of India's ongoing efforts to maintain security and stability in Jammu and Kashmir.

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