Amritsar/Ferozepur, April 27 -- The Border Security Force (BSF) on Saturday issued an urgent directive to farmers along the India-Pakistan border to complete harvesting and clear their fields within 48 hours, as tensions escalate following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists last week.

The heightened security measure affects thousands of farmers with agricultural land situated in the sensitive zone between the border fence and the zero line-a unique challenge for Punjab's border communities who cultivate approximately 45,000 acres across the 530-kilometre international boundary.

Village gurdwaras across Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka districts broadcast announcements warning farmers that access gates to thes...