Blackout in Kutch After Drone Sightings Amid Ceasefire Tensions
A sudden spike in aerial threats has triggered a complete blackout in Gujarat’s Kutch district on Saturday evening, following multiple drone sightings near the India-Pakistan border. The precautionary move comes amid ongoing ceasefire tensions under Operation Sindoor, a heightened military readiness initiative across the western front.
Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi confirmed the development through a public message on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Several drones have been spotted in the Kutch district. A complete blackout will be implemented now. Please stay safe. Don’t panic.”
Kutch Drone Sightings
Authorities acted swiftly after receiving reports of unidentified drone activity over Kutch, a strategically sensitive area bordering Pakistan. While the exact origin and purpose of the drones remain under investigation, defence units have been placed on high alert, and surveillance operations have been intensified across the district.
Gujarat Blackout Ordered
The Gujarat government has asked residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement until further notice. Law enforcement and emergency services have been instructed to patrol neighborhoods, enforce the blackout, and assist citizens as needed.
Blackout measures include switching off all lights, suspending outdoor activities, and limiting vehicular movement to minimize visibility from the air. These steps, officials believe, are critical in thwarting any potential hostile surveillance or attacks during this period of escalated cross-border strain.
Operation Sindoor and Ceasefire Tensions
The Kutch blackout follows a pattern of precautionary steps being taken across several Indian states bordering Pakistan. Earlier, blackout orders and restrictions were imposed in Punjab and parts of Jammu & Kashmir after increased aerial activity and sporadic ceasefire violations were reported despite a recent agreement to halt hostilities.
Operation Sindoor, a large-scale security mobilisation initiative, remains active with Indian forces closely monitoring drone movements, radar anomalies, and electronic signals along the border.
As the situation evolves, the Ministry of Home Affairs and state security agencies are expected to issue updated advisories to the public. For now, the government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security operations through compliance and calm.
