Jammu, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan in Crisis: Sirens, Blackouts, and Air Attack Alerts Amid Heightened Pakistan Threat

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu) – As tensions with Pakistan intensify, panic and preparation ripple across North India. Sirens began blaring in several parts of Jammu around 6 PM, including border-sensitive zones such as Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia sectors, signaling heightened alertness amid a worsening security scenario.

For the first time ever, an air attack alert has been issued in Ambala, Haryana – a city home to both an Army cantonment and a critical Indian Air Force station. The move has triggered a wave of precautionary measures across the region.

Blackouts Ordered in Haryana and Rajasthan

In response to the growing threat, the administrations in Ambala, Panipat, and Panchkula have enforced blackout orders from 8 PM to 6 AM. Residents are advised to leave their homes only in case of emergencies during this time.

Schools Closed, Markets Shut, High Alert in Chandigarh and Tri-City

In the Tri-City region – Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali – the situation remains tense. The Chandigarh administration has ordered the closure of all markets and shopping malls by 7 PM. Educational institutions including schools and colleges will remain shut till May 12. The use of firecrackers and fireworks has also been banned.

In Panchkula, the district administration has directed all shops to close by 6 PM, with only essential services like pharmacies allowed to operate. Meanwhile, in Mohali, all commercial establishments are being shut by 8 PM as a precaution.

Jaisalmer Under Lockdown-Like Conditions

In Rajasthan’s border district of Jaisalmer, the situation has become increasingly grave. Authorities have enforced a strict blackout from 6 PM to 6 AM, and all markets remain closed, effectively placing the area under curfew-like conditions.