Ambala on high alert: Aerial threat alert sounded, blackout imposed

Amid ongoing tensions with Pakistan, a potential aerial threat alert was sounded in Ambala on Friday morning after the Indian Air Force (IAF) detected a drone approximately 70 km from the city. The alert triggered precautionary measures, including the sounding of sirens and activation of emergency services.

KU postpones examinations

Kurukshetra University has also postponed all examinations scheduled for May 9 and 10. “Fresh dates will be notified later,” said Vice-Chancellor Prof Som Nath Sachdeva.

Deputy Commissioner Ajay Singh Tomer said, “At 10.20 am, a warning was received from the IAF that a drone, about 70-km away from Ambala, has been spotted and it may move forward towards Ambala. Following the alert, the sirens were sounded and all emergency services and disaster management force were put on standby mode. However, about 15 minutes later it was informed that the drone was not coming towards Ambala and hasn’t been spotted from some time. The citizens have been asked to immediately respond to the sound of the siren and follow the protocol.”

To ensure public safety, the district administration has announced a complete blackout from sunset to sunrise, banning the use of inverters, generators, and power backups for outdoor lighting. “In view of prevailing circumstances and intelligence inputs indicating a potential air strike threat from Pakistan, it is imperative to ensure complete blackout during the night hours to safeguard public safety and strategic interests,” the DC’s official order stated.

“Ambala is a sensitive area and even in the past during the war, the enemy had targeted Ambala. Elaborate security arrangements have been made in coordination with the Army, police, and the IAF,” Tomer added. He also reiterated the existing ban on drone usage, warning, “If any drone is found flying, then it will be brought down and strict legal action will be taken against the operator.”

Citizens, especially in areas like Mahesh Nagar, Baldev Nagar, and Dhulkot, have been urged to stay vigilant. In response to security needs, the number of operational air sirens is being increased from 12 to 19.

Meanwhile, a loud sound that caused public concern was clarified by officials as a sonic boom from a fighter aircraft. “There is nothing to panic,” said the DC.

As a precaution, a two-day holiday has been declared in educational institutions on May 9 and 10. The situation will be reviewed on Sunday.

Haryana Tribune