What Happened in Jammu as Sirens Sounded Amid Explosions?

Jammu, May 10 (NationPress) - The city of Jammu was enveloped in darkness late Friday night following a series of loud explosions reported throughout the area. This alarming situation led authorities to activate emergency alarms and strongly advise residents to remain indoors.

The blasts coincided with a rise in tensions between India and Pakistan, occurring shortly after India's drone strikes under Operation Sindoor, which successfully targeted numerous terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Officials have indicated that these explosions likely result from cross-border shelling initiated by Pakistan, a retaliatory response that has amplified tensions at the border and caused distress among the civilian population in Jammu.

Amidst growing fear, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah took to social media platform X to confirm the unfolding situation and issued a critical advisory to the public.

"I can hear intermittent blasts, likely heavy artillery, from my location," Abdullah tweeted.

He also posted a chilling image of Jammu shrouded in darkness, which quickly gained traction online:

"Blackout in Jammu. Sirens are echoing across the city."

In a heartfelt plea to the public, the Chief Minister urged for calm and attentiveness:

"I earnestly request everyone in and around Jammu to avoid the streets, stay indoors, or find the closest safe location for the next few hours. Please disregard rumors and refrain from spreading unverified information. Together we will navigate this situation."

Sources have reported sightings of drones in areas close to the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan. Some of these drones are suspected of being armed, presenting risks to both civilian and military sites.

Tragically, an armed drone recently struck a civilian area in Ferozpur, injuring several members of a local family. Medical assistance has been provided to the wounded, and security forces have sanitized the area.

"The Indian Armed Forces remain on high alert, diligently monitoring aerial threats and employing counter-drone systems. The situation is constantly under surveillance, and prompt actions are being initiated as needed," officials stated.

Residents, particularly those in border regions, are advised to stay indoors, limit unnecessary travel, and adhere strictly to safety directives issued by local authorities. While panic is unwarranted, heightened vigilance is crucial.

On Friday, CM Abdullah visited Jammu city following Thursday's unsuccessful missile and drone strikes by Pakistan.

He inquired about the condition of the injured individuals receiving care at the government medical college hospital.

The Chief Minister also visited camps to assess relief measures for individuals relocated from vulnerable areas. Pakistani troops have intensified mortar shelling in the Jammu and Samba regions.

It remains unclear whether the loud explosions reported in Jammu are due to enemy artillery or drones launched from across the border.

The military has confirmed drone sightings in Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot in Punjab. Additionally, air defense operations have commenced to engage these drones.

Alarm sirens were also reported in the city of Srinagar.

In response, security forces have been deployed throughout Jammu, with multiple checkpoints reinforced. Emergency protocols have been activated by the district administration, and drone surveillance is actively assessing threats and damages.

While no casualties have been reported thus far, the psychological impact of the blackout and continuous explosions has been profound. Markets closed early, and public transportation services were halted, as fear and uncertainty gripped the city.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation and are anticipated to hold a press briefing later tonight.