Amritsar, May 8 (ANI): Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, a complete blackout was enforced in several regions, including Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Pathankot, as air raid warning sirens echoed through the streets. The blackout, initiated around 8:30 PM on May 8, 2025, came as a precautionary measure following missile strikes launched by the Indian armed forces against terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Authorities urged residents to keep their lights off and stay indoors, although they reassured that there was no need for panic.
The situation intensified after Indian forces executed missile strikes on nine terror targets early on May 7, including the notorious Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar-e-Taiba base in Muridke. This military action was a direct response to a terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives on April 22, 2025. The ongoing military standoff has prompted security agencies to remain on high alert, particularly in border states.
As the night fell on May 8, air raid sirens were activated in Chandigarh and Mohali, with residents advised to comply with the blackout protocols. Shops were ordered to close, and people were instructed to remain indoors. A statement from the district collector of Chandigarh emphasized the seriousness of the situation, urging citizens to respond immediately to the sirens and turn off all lights. "Keeping in view the ongoing emergency situation, all the residents are requested to immediately respond to the sound of the siren and switch off all the lights and also are advised not to venture outside or on the rooftops," the statement read.
Meanwhile, reports surfaced of Pakistani drone attacks targeting Amritsar on the evening of May 8, although these attempts were thwarted by Indian forces. The Indian military's response included the activation of advanced air defense systems, including the S-400 missile interceptors, which successfully neutralized threats posed by Pakistani missiles and drones.
The Pakistani military's aggressive maneuvers have not gone unnoticed. In a dramatic escalation, they launched multiple missiles at various locations, including RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar in Jammu and Kashmir. Shelling was also reported in Pathankot, which lies approximately 30 kilometers from the international border.
The situation was further complicated by a nationwide civil defense drill conducted on May 7, during which the Golden Temple in Amritsar experienced a temporary blackout. This drill was ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and was intended to prepare the public for potential emergencies.
In light of the ongoing conflict, Pakistan has declared a complete lockdown across its territory, with military operations intensifying over the past few days. Reports indicate that Pakistan has attempted to target over 15 Indian military bases, with their efforts consistently thwarted by India’s defense systems. The debris from these attacks has been recovered from various locations, serving as evidence of the Pakistani military's aggressive posture.
At a press conference, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri condemned Pakistan's actions, asserting that the original escalation began with the terror attack in Pahalgam. "The original escalation was by Pakistan on the 22nd of April. We are the ones who are responding to that escalation with the action that was taken yesterday morning," he stated. Misri emphasized that India's military actions were restrained, targeting non-civilian, non-military installations, primarily focusing on terrorist camps.
As the night progressed, residents in the affected areas were instructed to adhere to blackout measures, with officials reiterating that such precautions were vital for public safety. The Chandigarh administration's social media accounts echoed this message, stating, "Important Public Advisory: Chandigarh will be observing blackout until further orders. All are requested to switch off all lights and stay indoors." This directive extended to several districts in Punjab, including Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, and Mohali.
In summary, the current military standoff between India and Pakistan has escalated significantly, with both sides engaging in missile and drone attacks. The Indian government has responded with targeted military strikes, while simultaneously enforcing blackout measures in several regions to mitigate risks associated with aerial threats. As tensions continue to rise, residents remain vigilant, closely following official advisories and updates from local authorities.
As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict and a return to stability in the region.
