Drone Attacks along India-Pakistan Border
For two consecutive nights, Pakistan launched swarms of drones targeting military installations across multiple cities on India's northern and western borders.
Drone Interceptions and Alerts
- The Indian military intercepted and shot down multiple drones. An armed drone, however, fell in a civilian area in Ferozepur, Punjab, injuring a family.
- Pakistani drones were sighted at 26 locations, ranging from Baramulla in J&K to Bhuj in Gujarat, along both the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan.
- Key locations included Srinagar, Awantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, among others.
- The armed forces maintained high alert levels and engaged all aerial threats using counter-drone systems.
Civilian Safety Measures
- Citizens, especially in border areas, were advised to remain indoors, limit unnecessary movement, and adhere strictly to safety instructions issued by local authorities.
- Surveillance drones were primarily used for reconnaissance, with a few carrying explosives.
Multiple Explosions in Kashmir
- Explosions were reported near Srinagar International Airport and the Awantipora air base in south Kashmir’s Pulwama.
- Power was cut across the Kashmir Valley, and sirens were activated near the Badamibagh cantonment.
- Simultaneous blasts in different parts of the Valley led to widespread panic, with residents seeking cover indoors.
Impact in Punjab and Rajasthan
- In Punjab, drones and explosions were reported across Ferozepur, Amritsar, Pathankot, and Hoshiarpur, causing injury and property damage.
- Ferozepur witnessed the highest activity, with drones falling in residential areas, leading to injuries and damage to homes.
- Rajasthan's border districts also reported drone sightings, with Barmer announcing a "red alert" and enforcing a blackout.
Precautionary Measures and Appeals
- In Jammu, blackouts and sirens were reported, with explosions heard in the city and the Samba sector.
- J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged residents to stay off the streets and remain indoors for safety.
Government Response
- Drones used in the attacks were being analyzed based on the debris found.
- Government sources indicated a mix of surveillance and armed drones were utilized, with ongoing operations given priority due to sensitivity.