Battle of Jassar Bridge

The Battle of Jassar Bridge was a significant engagement that occurred during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, fought on September 6–7, 1965. The battle took place near the Jassar Bridge, located on the Ravi River, at the border between India and Pakistan. This battle was part of the larger struggle for control of the Sialkot region, a strategically important area during the conflict.

Battle of Jassar Bridge
Part of Indo-Pakistani War of 1965
A disabled M4A1 Sherman of the 33rd TDU, as found near the railway bridge in the Jasser Enclave
Date September 6–7, 1965 Location Jassar Enclave, near Sialkot, Pakistan Result Pakistani victory
Belligerents
Pakistan Pakistan Army	India Indian Army
Commanders and leaders
Brigadier Muzafarudin	Brigadier Pritam Singh
Units involved
3 Punjab Regiment, 33 TDU	2 Madras, 2 Rajputana Rifles, 1/5 Gurkha Rifles
Strength
Unknown	Unknown
Casualties and losses
14 killed, 15 wounded	200 killed, unofficial estimates up to 800

Background

In the days leading up to the battle, Indian forces launched an offensive aimed at capturing vital strategic points along the border, including the Jassar Bridge. The bridge was crucial for securing the region's northern flank and maintaining supply routes for Pakistan. Pakistani forces, led by Brigadier Muzafarudin, were tasked with defending the Jassar Enclave. They were supported by the 33 Tank Destroyer Unit (TDU) and the 3 Punjab Regiment. Indian forces, under Brigadier Pritam Singh, included troops from the 2 Madras, 2 Rajputana Rifles, and 1/5 Gurkha Rifles, all of whom were part of the 29 Infantry Brigade and supported by artillery bombardments.

The region, defended by a single battalion supported by the 33rd TDU, relied on a steel road and a rail-bridge pre-dating Independence. These connections were vital for logistical support. Pakistani forces understood the significance of maintaining control of the bridge and prepared defenses accordingly.

Battle

The battle commenced on the evening of September 6, when Indian artillery began shelling Pakistani positions. Indian infantry launched an assault in an effort to capture the bridge and break through the Pakistani defensive lines. Despite facing resistance, the Indians pushed forward but were halted by the defense of Pakistani forces, including the 3 Punjab Regiment and 33 TDU. Pakistani forces successfully repelled the first wave of attacks.

During the night of September 6 to 7, the Indians launched a second attack, this time capturing the eastern side of the bridge. Pakistani engineers responded by demolishing the bridge on the morning of September 7 to prevent its further use by Indian forces. Pakistani counterattacks, supported by tanks from the 33rd TDU, successfully regained lost positions, forcing the Indian forces to withdraw.

Outcome

The outcome of the battle was decisive in halting the Indian advance through the region. Although India suffered significant casualties—estimated to be around 200 dead, with some sources suggesting as many as 800 casualties—Pakistani forces successfully defended the Jassar Enclave and destroyed the vital bridge. This strategic victory played a crucial role in the overall defensive efforts in the Sialkot sector during the early stages of the war.

At the time, the Indian assault at Jassar raised concerns at both the brigade and divisional levels of the Pakistani command. It was initially feared to be a prelude to a larger offensive. Despite these concerns, the Pakistani defense, coupled with timely demolition of the bridge, neutralized the threat.

Casualties

The battle resulted in heavy losses on both sides. Pakistani forces reported 14 killed and 15 wounded. Indian casualties were far greater, with an official count of around 200 dead, although some estimates suggest the actual toll could be much higher, up to 800 soldiers.