As tensions flare between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack in India-controlled Kashmir in late April, residents of Chakothi, a frontline village in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, are once again preparing for the worst.
The attack, which left at least 25 people dead and several others injured, has intensified hostilities between the two countries, with both sides trading blame.
For those living along the Line of Control (LoC) -- the de facto border -- the threat of war feels imminent.
Located just two kilometers from the LoC, Chakothi has long lived under the shadow of conflict, with Indian army posts perched high on the surrounding hills. Beneath them lie 30 concrete bunkers.
As tensions escalate, residents like Adeel Ahmad are once again preparing their bunkers. These bunkers, about three meters wide and just as deep, are the residents' only refuge.
"There are just two bunkers for 50 people. As you can see behind me, that's the Line of Control. India's up there in the mountains, and we're down here in the low-lying area, which makes us a lot more exposed," said Adeel.
Across Chakothi, villagers are preparing more -- hauling straw, fixing wooden beams, and readying emergency supplies.
The Pakistani government has also urged residents to stockpile rations for at least two months.
"Sometimes the firing lasts for three, four, even six days. That's why we've stocked up with a month's worth of supplies -- food, water, bedding -- everything we might need," Adeel also said.
Adeel's younger brother Abrar said that it's hard to focus on schoolwork when explosions rattle their village.
"They have announced that schools will be closed for ten days, since we're so close to the LoC. It's really tough for students. Sometimes the firing starts right in the middle of our exams, and we just can't focus or study properly," said Abrar.
The Pakistani government said nearly 1.5 million civilians live along the Line of Control. Many can't afford to leave -- tied to their livestock, homes, and history.
Residents in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir brace for war following deadly attack
