Tensions Escalate Amid India-Pakistan Standoff Leading to Blackout in Punjab

A blackout was enforced in several Punjab areas as India and Pakistan engaged in a military standoff. Explosions were heard in Pathankot and Ferozepur. India thwarted Pakistan's attempts to strike military sites, with tensions escalating after India's strikes on Pakistani air defense systems.

A blackout was initiated across various areas of Punjab on Friday evening, including Ferozepur, Pathankot, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur. This action came amid heightening tensions between India and Pakistan, as military forces from both nations appeared to be on high alert.

Residents reported hearing loud explosions in the districts of Pathankot and Ferozepur, though there was no immediate official confirmation regarding the source of the sounds. Official sources confirmed that air raid sirens were activated in the concerned districts, signaling an elevated state of caution.

On Thursday night, the Indian military successfully intercepted Pakistan's new attempts to target Indian military sites with drones and missiles in regions such as Jammu and Pathankot. This follows recent escalations, including Pakistan's shelling along the LoC and IB, and India's precision strikes on terror sites in PoK under 'Operation Sindoor'.

(With inputs from agencies.)