New Delhi: Drones were reportedly sighted over Jammu, leading to a city-wide blackout and the sounding of air raid sirens. The event has heightened existing tensions between India and Pakistan, creating a volatile atmosphere in the border region. Initial reports from local residents describe the sighting of at least two drones in the Jammu night sky, causing widespread alarm and panic. This prompted a mass exodus of people from the affected areas.
The subsequent blackout affected the entire city, adding to the confusion and fear. The timing of the blackout, coupled with the activation of air raid sirens, suggests a coordinated response to a perceived threat. The former Director General of Police (DGP) of Jammu and Kashmir, SP Vaid, further fueled concerns by tweeting about loud explosions heard in the region. While Mr. Vaid suggested the possibility of bombing, shelling, or missile strikes, official confirmation remains pending.
The incident mirrors a previous escalation in Pahalgham. News reports show images of the drones, exhibiting red lights, which seem to validate the residents’ claims. The blackout, according to reports, is in line with newly implemented military protocols designed to ensure a swift and organised response to emergency situations. This protocol mandates immediate blackouts in high-risk zones during emergencies. The Pakistani side’s alleged attack on 15 locations within Indian territory the previous night might have been a significant trigger.
The incident has raised serious security concerns. The dense population and heavy military presence in the region add to the seriousness of the situation. Authorities are yet to release a comprehensive statement, but investigations are expected to be undertaken to determine the nature of the drones and to identify their origin and purpose. The current situation underscores the ever-increasing threat of drone warfare, a new dimension in conflict on the India-Pakistan border.
