Several states have announced emergency measures, including blackouts, school closures, and the cancellation of official leaves.
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, as the two countries continue to exchange fire, several emergency measured have been announced in north Indian states. Blackouts have been imposed, schools have been closed and official leaves have been cancelled in several states.
These heightened security measures come as India thwarted Pakistan’s attempts to attack three military bases in India. Indian forces made sure that Pakistan’s attempts caused no losses. However, it did lead to loud explosions being heard in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur and several other towns in J&K and Punjab overnight on Friday.
Border states on high alert
In Punjab, that shares a 532-km border with Pakistan and was a target of Pakistani drone and missile attacks which India thwarted, has emerged as a critical zone. All police leaves have been cancelled in Punjab and schools in six border districts have been shut down: Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran. Blackouts were also enforced Thursday evening in districts including Pathankot, Amritsar, and Chandigarh.
“All districts near the border have been placed on high alert,” said Punjab minister Aman Arora. “The role of the Punjab government becomes extremely crucial during any military tension.”
Neighboring Haryana has followed suit by cancelling leaves of police personnel and health department officials. Authorities have directed all officers to remain at their respective district headquarters, ready for any emergency.
The Delhi government has also scrapped leave for all employees and initiated preparedness drills across districts. District magistrates are reviewing health and disaster readiness in the national capital.
Rajasthan tightens security
Rajasthan, with over 1,000 km of international border, has imposed stringent blackouts in Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur, ranging from 9 pm to 4 am. Schools have been closed in five western districts, and red alerts issued in Sri Ganganagar. Drone flights and firecrackers have been banned in several areas, while flight operations at Bikaner, Kishangarh, and Jodhpur airports have been suspended till May 10.