Amritsar Blackout Ordered Amid High Alert, Says DC
In light of heightened tensions and ongoing security threats, Amritsar authorities enforced a citywide blackout on Monday night as a precautionary measure. The move comes amid a series of drone intrusions and airspace violations reported in border districts of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.
Issuing an alert to residents, the Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar made a clear and calm appeal:
“You will hear a siren. We are on alert and initiating the blackout. Please switch off your lights and move away from your windows. Stay calm, we will inform when ready to restore the power supply. Don’t panic at all. This is by way of abundant caution,” said the DC.
Rising Drone Threats Prompt Emergency Protocols
The blackout follows a pattern of similar measures adopted in other sensitive regions such as Samba, Jaisalmer, Ambala, and Firozpur, where Indian air defence systems have intercepted multiple Pakistani drones. The use of strategic blackouts is aimed at minimizing visibility for potential airborne threats and enabling effective countermeasures by defence forces.
Over the past week, India has been on heightened alert following Operation Sindoor—a precision airstrike campaign targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. In response, Pakistan has attempted to launch retaliatory drone and missile strikes, most of which have been successfully intercepted by India’s air defence units.
Civil Administration Urges Calm, Vigilance
The Amritsar administration stressed that there is no immediate danger to the civilian population but emphasized that the blackout was necessary to ensure maximum security readiness. Sirens were activated across several sectors as part of the alert mechanism. Local law enforcement and emergency services remain on standby, while defence installations maintain round-the-clock surveillance.
Residents were advised to keep their mobile devices charged, avoid unnecessary movement, and rely on official communication channels for further updates.
India’s broader security apparatus remains on high alert as tensions with Pakistan continue to escalate. With advanced aerial surveillance, missile tracking systems, and blackout protocols in place, the government is prioritizing civilian safety without compromising operational secrecy.
