Amide vile weather and heavy terrorist resistance, Army Task Force 1 troops have stepped into the great marshlands of Poonaryn, the final obstacle they have to clear before achieving their mission, defence sources said.
According to the sources, heavy fighting have been reported since last evening (Nov 9) in the Chempankundu area, as infantrymen started crossing the extremely hostile terrain that runs about 18 Km, west to east from Chempankundu to Nivil. The marshlands that have about 2 km width at some parts stand as an excellent defence for the terrorists, the sources said. However, troops are not in a mood to slow down their pace of advance despite whatever barricade stand against them, the sources added.
Troops of 583 brigade, attacked an LTTE strong point in Chempankundu around 6.10 PM and reported heavy damages to the terrorists. Few soldiers laid own their lives and several others sustained injuries. Meanwhile, troops of 582 brigade confronted with a group of terrorists in the Mulaikoduttavil area around 7.40 AM. Troops claimed heavy damages to the terrorists.
Snipers deployed in the forward areas reported shooting down of two terrorists in the Navalladi and Pallai areas during the day.
Task Force 1 launched their operations early this year to dominate the northwestern coast of the island. So far, troops have marched about 75 km along the Mannar- Poonaryn road (A-32) and established their forward boundaries 7km south of Poonaryn at present.
Defence observers are in the view that troops would be able to wrest full control over the A-32 road once they cross the marshland. The accomplishment of this would open a land route to Jaffna peninsula after 20 years, they add.
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