Jammu, May 1 -- As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to rise in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, senior officials say the Pakistan Rangers have vacated their watch towers across the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Samba districts.

"Pakistan Rangers have vacated their watch towers and removed flags from them," said officials privy to the developments.

A watch tower generally accommodates four to five soldiers.

"Being close to the border and on a height, these watch towers are in the direct line of fire and can be easily blown up. The move indicates Pakistan is fearing punitive action," the officials added.

Amid a spike in cross-border exchange of small arms fire, villagers in forward areas have been work...