Operation Sindoor LIVE: Pakistan Targets 36 Indian Sites Using Drones; Air Threat Alert Rock Chandigarh, Punjab & Himachal

New Delhi – In a significant escalation of cross-border tensions, Pakistan on Friday attempted to target 36 Indian locations using drones, as part of what is now being referred to as Operation Sindoor. A joint press briefing held by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Armed Forces confirmed that all these aerial incursions were successfully neutralized by Indian defence systems.

The incident marks one of the most intense and coordinated drone offensives in recent years.

Chandigarh on High Alert: Sirens Sounded, Residents Told to Stay Indoors

In response to the aerial threat, Chandigarh’s Air Force Station activated full emergency protocols. Loud air raid sirens echoed across the city, and the District Commissioner’s Office issued immediate advisories for citizens to:

• Stay indoors
• Avoid rooftops and balconies
• Remain away from open spaces

Later in the day, a second round of sirens indicated the end of the air threat alert. Life in Chandigarh, however, remained far from normal.

Coaching Centres Closed, Malls Shut, Blackouts Ordered in Several States

Chandigarh

All coaching institutes in Chandigarh were advised to suspend operations until Sunday, prioritising student safety. Non-essential shops—including malls, restaurants, and clothing outlets—were ordered shut at 7 PM, with only essential services like pharmacies permitted to remain open.

Mohali

Authorities enforced a strict night curfew from 8 PM to 6 AM in Mohali. Cinema halls and shopping malls have been ordered closed during these hours. The use of generators, outdoor lighting, and billboards has been prohibited under blackout operations, with legal action threatened against violators.

Himachal Pradesh (Bilaspur)

The Bilaspur district administration in Himachal Pradesh issued a public blackout advisory, urging residents to:

• Turn off all lights during night hours
• Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary
• Cooperate with law enforcement and emergency services

District Magistrate Rahul Kumar emphasized the advisory was “in public interest” and highlighted the need for vigilance and restraint.

Border Security Intensifies: Uttarakhand and J&K on Alert

Security has also been beefed up in sensitive border areas:

• In Uttarakhand, patrolling was intensified across the India-Nepal border, especially in Pithoragarh and Champawat districts.
• In Jammu’s Samba sector, the Border Security Force (BSF) foiled a major infiltration attempt, neutralizing seven armed terrorists.

New Sirens Being Installed in Mohali

Officials revealed that existing air raid sirens in areas like Kharar and Zirakpur were found to be inaudible during the emergency. The administration has ordered 50 long-range sirens to improve emergency communication infrastructure.

Rajnath Singh Reviews Situation with Service Chiefs

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducted a high-level meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff and service chiefs to assess the overall security landscape. The Defence Ministry reaffirmed that India is prepared for any further escalation.

IPL 2025 Suspended; US Urges De-escalation

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the suspension of IPL 2025, citing national security concerns. Meanwhile, US Vice-President JD Vance commented that the India-Pakistan conflict is “none of America’s business”, though he urged both nations to de-escalate tensions.

Conclusion: Nation on Edge, Security Measures in Full Swing

As the situation evolves, Operation Sindoor has pushed national security to the forefront of public discourse. With swift responses from Indian armed forces and strict civilian protocols, authorities are working round the clock to ensure the safety and stability of the country.

Citizens are advised to remain alert, follow official advisories, and trust the armed forces safeguarding the nation.