India, Aug. 7 -- The massive anti-terrorist operation in the dense Akhal forest area of Kulgam district continued for sixth running day on Wednesday, with security forces intensifying search for terrorists believed to be hiding in the rugged terrain.

The Akhal encounter, one of the longest this year, began on Friday after security forces launched a cordon and search operation in a forest area at Akhal in the district, following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists there, officials said.

"After an initial exchange of fire between the two sides on Friday evening, the operation was halted for the night, but the cordon was strengthened and additional reinforcements were rushed to the area," they said, adding, "Firin...