What Caused the Missile-like Object to Fall in Balotara? Drone Debris Discovered in Jaisalmer?
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Synopsis
A mysterious explosion in Balotara has left residents shaken as a missile-like object fell from the sky. Authorities are on high alert following this incident and drone debris found in Jaisalmer, raising concerns about security along the India-Pakistan border.
Key Takeaways
- Explosion in Balotara caused by a missile-like object.
- Drone debris found in Jaisalmer heightening security concerns.
- Residents are advised to stay indoors.
- Five airports in Rajasthan are closed due to security risks.
- Emergency budget of ₹19 crore sanctioned for border districts.
Jaipur, May 10 (NationPress) A powerful explosion resonated through the Gida region of Balotara late Friday night when a missile-like object descended from the sky near Dewasi ki Dhani in the Jagram ki Dhani Panchayat.
Local residents hurried to the area, where they found a heavy, metallic object that bore a striking resemblance to a missile.
Authorities quickly notified the police, who in turn alerted both district officials and military personnel.
Police representatives informed IANS that parts resembling a missile were retrieved, stating that an investigation was currently underway.
“Our team is present at the site along with other officials to probe the situation,” they remarked.
In a separate occurrence, early Saturday morning, drone fragments were found scattered across Mangaliyon ki Dhani in Baroda village of the Jaisalmer district following another loud explosion.
Sadar police station officials promptly responded to evaluate the circumstances. These events have heightened apprehensions along the India-Pakistan border, particularly in Barmer, which is now under heightened alert.
The district administration has urged residents to remain indoors amidst the increased risk of aerial attacks.
Reports indicate that multiple drone strikes were launched by Pakistan targeting military sites in Jaisalmer and Barmer for the second consecutive night on Friday.
Fortunately, the Indian Army successfully intercepted and neutralized the incoming drones.
In light of the rising tensions, the Airports Authority of India has extended the closure of five airports in Rajasthan, including Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Kishangarh in Ajmer, and Uttarlai in Barmer, now set to remain closed until May 14.
These airports were initially scheduled to close only until May 10.
In total, 32 airports nationwide will remain shut as a precautionary measure.
Moreover, the State Election Commission has retracted the Panchayat Raj bye-election timetable for four border districts: Sri Ganganagar, Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner.
The Rajasthan government has allocated an emergency budget of ₹19 crore for these regions, and an all-party meeting has been organized for Saturday to evaluate the evolving situation.
Preventive measures are being intensified.
Secretary of the Medical Education Department, Ambrish Kumar, has instructed all hospitals and healthcare centers in border districts to prepare for emergencies, deploying additional medical staff immediately.
In Alwar, district authorities have prohibited the use of drones during weddings and large gatherings to avert potential misuse amid the current tensions.
In Jodhpur, a complete blackout was previously mandated from midnight to 4 am, but this was enacted immediately following the drone attack from Pakistan, with the Jodhpur Discom shutting off city lights around 9 p.m.
Restrictions on flying drone cameras and hot air balloons are also in place.
Jodhpur Airport is set to remain closed for passenger flights until May 14.
In Barmer, coaching institutes, libraries, and hostels will stay closed until further notice from Collector Pratap Singh.
Earlier, holidays were declared for all government and private schools up to class 12.
A total blackout will occur from 6 pm to 6 am, with all lighting turned off during this timeframe, and movement of all vehicles, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers, will be prohibited.
It is crucial to note that the approximately 1,070-km-long border with Pakistan has been completely sealed.
Point of View
This incident highlights the fragility of security in border regions. Continuous vigilance is paramount in ensuring the safety of citizens, particularly given the heightened tensions in the area. The government must act decisively to address these threats while maintaining public confidence.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the explosion in Balotara?
The explosion was caused by a missile-like object falling from the sky, which is currently under investigation by local authorities.
Are there any safety measures for residents?
Yes, the district administration has advised residents to stay indoors amid the heightened threat of aerial attacks.
How many airports are closed in Rajasthan?
Five airports in Rajasthan are closed until May 14 as a precautionary measure due to security concerns.
What is the status of drone activity in the region?
Drone activities are restricted, and authorities have banned flying drones during weddings and large gatherings to prevent misuse.
What actions is the government taking?
The Rajasthan government has sanctioned an emergency budget of ₹19 crore for affected districts and is enhancing security measures.
