Amid escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan, air raid sirens were sounded across Chandigarh on Friday following an alert from the local Air Force station warning of a possible aerial attack, officials confirmed.
The alert prompted an immediate public advisory by the Chandigarh Deputy Commissioner, urging citizens to take shelter.
“An air warning has been received from the Air Force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and away from balconies,” the Deputy Commissioner stated.
In a parallel move, security has been heightened at the Shri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport in Amritsar, with all operations suspended until further notice. The airport has been sealed, and only authorized personnel are being allowed entry.
“There is adequate security at the airport. Only airport personnel are allowed inside. Police are continuously patrolling. The villagers have been made aware of protocols to be followed,” Airport ACP Yadwinder Singh said.
The District Public Relations Officer (DPRO) of Amritsar also issued a citywide advisory, urging all residents to stay indoors, turn off lights, and keep curtains drawn to avoid visibility from potential threats.
“All citizens are requested to stay indoors and away from the windows, keep lights turned off, and draw the window curtains. There is no need to panic. A siren will blow now, and we will pass the message again once it is clear,” the DPRO said.
The developments follow a night of intense military operations, during which the Indian Army shot down more than 50 Pakistani drones in a massive counter-drone action along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Borders (IB), sources told media.
Meanwhile, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff reported that Pakistan had also attempted to target military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur, all of which lie in proximity to the IB. Fortunately, Indian Armed Forces responded swiftly, neutralizing the threats without any loss of life or major damage.
The surge in tension and public safety measures come in the wake of Operation Sindoor, launched by India in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives.
The situation remains tense, but under control, with state and central forces on high alert and ready for further provocations.