Pakistans attack prompts blackout in several cities in Punjab, J&K | Check complete list

PTC News Desk: As Pakistan resorted to firing missiles and drones with targets on border areas across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Rajasthan, blackout was reported in several cities. In a major escalation of hostilities this evening, the Pakistani military opened up artillery fire in Jammu, Punjab's Pathankot, Rajasthan's Jaisalmer.

This development follows a day after India launched strikes on terror camps at nine sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack that left 26 people dead. On May 7-8, India successfully thwarted Pakistan’s attempt to target 15 cities across the country.

Cities Under Complete Blackout Amid Pakistani Attacks

JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Several cities including Jammu, Rajouri, Udhampur, Samba, and Srinagar experienced full blackouts after sightings of Pakistani drones and missiles being intercepted by Indian air defence systems lit up the skies. This followed multiple loud explosions in Jammu on Thursday, with sirens sounding across the region. Sirens were also reported in Akhnoor, Baramulla, Samba, and Kupwara. Additionally, Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur in Punjab were also placed under complete blackout.

RAJASTHAN

Jaisalmer, a border city in Rajasthan, was plunged into darkness amid cross-border firing. A Pakistani drone was intercepted and shot down approximately 20 kilometers from the Phalodi Air Force base. In response to the escalating tensions, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma convened a high-level meeting with top state officials including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, DG Intelligence, and ADG Law and Order.

GUJARAT

Blackout orders were issued in the border villages of Banaskantha district, particularly in the Suigam and Vav regions.

HIMACHAL PRADESH

In Dharamshala, three out of four floodlight towers were turned off during the Punjab vs. Delhi Capitals cricket match, which was ultimately called off due to the escalating situation.

DEFENCE RESPONSE

India has deployed advanced air defence systems including the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra, L-70, ZSU-23, and Schilka to counter Pakistani drone threats. Indian forces also shot down a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet following attacks launched by Islamabad in multiple areas across Jammu and Punjab.

Srinagar airport has been placed on high alert, with air defence units fully activated.