Punjab on Alert: Blackouts and Air Raid Sirens Amid India-Pakistan Tensions

A blackout was enforced across key districts in Punjab, including Pathankot, Amritsar, and Jalandhar, on Thursday evening as tensions escalated between India and Pakistan. The precautionary measure was aimed at ensuring citizen safety amid a regional security alert, officials revealed.

In Jalandhar, security forces swiftly responded to drone sightings, neutralizing the threats by late evening. Meanwhile, Pathankot residents reported hearing explosion-like sounds, although authorities have not confirmed these reports. The sound of air raid warning sirens and loud noises added to the fears gripping the border district.

The blackout extended to other regions such as Rupnagar and Ludhiana. The Mohali administration declared a 'No Flying Zone' for drones, excluding law enforcement agencies. Schools remain shut in border areas, and police personnel have canceled leaves as tensions continue following recent military strikes in Pakistan and PoK.

(With inputs from agencies.)