Barmer Imposes Blackout Amidst Rising Indo-Pak Tensions

Amidst escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the administration in Barmer district has announced stringent security measures on Friday, mandating a complete blackout from 6 pm to 6 am for all residents. All markets are ordered closed by 5 pm as part of the directives aimed at enhancing security protocols.

According to the official notification, residents are instructed to turn off all household and establishment lights during the blackout hours. Vehicular movement, including two-wheelers and four-wheelers, is strictly prohibited at night. Additionally, a 5-kilometer no-entry buffer zone has been enforced around defense areas, with any suspicious activities subject to legal action.

The district has also banned the operation of drones and the use of fireworks. The administration has called on residents to cooperate fully with these measures in the interest of national security, emphasizing their crucial nature amid the ongoing tensions in the region.

These unprecedented measures come in the wake of recent cross-border hostilities. Operation Sindoor has seen Pakistan attempt missile strikes on Indian military installations, which have been successfully intercepted by India's advanced air defense systems. This highlights India's robust defense capabilities, particularly the effectiveness of systems like the S-400 Triumf and Barak-8 missiles.

With the security situation tense, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is urging all states and Union Territories to strengthen their civil defense measures. The MHA's letter emphasizes the empowerment of state governments under the Civil Defence Rules of 1968, enabling them to take necessary actions to protect civilians and vital services during potential attacks.

The Ministry has also recommended granting emergency procurement powers to civil defense directors to ensure quick implementation of protective strategies. This move is directed at preparing states for possible hostile engagements, following recent attacks in Jammu and Jaisalmer by Pakistani forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)