Chandigarh Air Raid Alert Ends Amid Heightened India-Pakistan Tensions
An air raid warning siren indicating a "possible drone attack" sounded in Chandigarh on Friday morning, May 9th, before the alert was declared over approximately an hour later by authorities. This incident occurred against a backdrop of significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, following India's "Operation Sindoor" earlier in the week and subsequent cross-border military engagements, including thwarted Pakistani drone and missile attacks on Thursday night.
Heightened Alertness Following Retaliatory Actions
The Chandigarh alert followed reports that Indian air defence systems had successfully intercepted multiple drones and missiles launched by Pakistan targeting border districts on Thursday night. In response to these and ongoing threats, precautionary measures, including blackouts, have been implemented in various areas of Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Punjab. Enhanced security is also in place at airports, with some flight operations impacted. Educational institutions in districts like Leh have been temporarily closed.
Cross-Border Shelling Intensifies, Civilian Casualties Reported
Pakistan has significantly intensified artillery fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Officials confirmed that this shelling resulted in the death of one civilian woman and injuries to four others on Thursday night. Numerous houses and structures have also reportedly been damaged. This marks a continuation of ceasefire violations, now involving heavier weaponry. The Indian Army stated it is responding appropriately to these provocations.
Diplomatic Efforts and National Response
Amidst the military standoff, diplomatic channels are active. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spoken with both Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasizing the need for immediate de-escalation. Minister Jaishankar, in turn, underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism and its resolve to counter any attempts at escalation. Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, stated that India is "at war with terrorists" and will ensure accountability for the Pahalgam attack. The Ministry of External Affairs is scheduled to brief the media later today.
The situation between India and Pakistan remains highly volatile, characterized by ongoing military preparedness, civilian alerts, cross-border firing leading to casualties, and active diplomatic engagements. The brief air raid warning in Chandigarh serves as a stark reminder of the prevailing tensions as both nations navigate the fallout of recent military actions.
