Panchkula markets to close after 7 pm, locals urged to stay indoors post dark

Amidst escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the district has been placed under high alert. A series of emergency measures have been rolled out to ensure public safety and maintain law and order. Senior officials from the police, municipal and district administration have issued a coordinated set of directives covering everything from traffic regulation and blackout enforcement to market closures and public information protocols.

Deputy Commissioner Monika Gupta, in a high-level meeting with district officials, confirmed that Panchkula remains fully secure despite the high-alert status. However, she urged citizens to exercise caution, stay indoors after 7 pm, and strictly observe blackout protocols. A blackout alert was already triggered the previous night, and similar alerts may follow. Residents have been advised to turn off all lights, close curtains and avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary.

The DC also directed market associations to switch off all display board and exterior lights, close shops by 7 pm and ensure compliance with blackout instructions. CCTV systems and solar streetlights are to remain switched off to enhance blackout effectiveness. Government offices are required to keep all lights off during nighttime, with officials held accountable for compliance.

Meanwhile, Municipal Commissioner Aparajita, along with Joint Commissioner Simranjeet Kaur and Deputy Commissioner Apurv Chaudhary, held an emergency meeting with market associations to reinforce district-wide blackout and closure directives. All non-essential shops are to close by 6 pm, with only medical shops permitted to remain open. Market associations have been told to ensure all signage and lighting are turned off. Citizens have been urged to stay indoors during blackout drills and avoid windows, remain calm, and refrain from spreading unverified information on social media.

Blackout lifted late at night

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Himadri Kaushik issued strict orders mandating blackouts from 8 pm to 6 am. Around 11.30 pm, however, the blackout was lifted following new directives. The orders were issued by Police Commissioner, Sibash Kabiraj, which read, “Only in the event of a Red Alert, siren will be sounded and upon administrative orders, there is no need to turn off lights. However, everyone must remain indoors.”

Four police companies totalling 400 personnel, supported by ERVs and rider units, are on high alert and fully deployed across all checkposts

The DCP urged the public not to panic, trust only official government channels such as PIB Fact Check and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and avoid forwarding unverified messages.

In parallel, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP, Traffic) Sukarpal Singh has instructed traffic officers to ensure smooth vehicle movement, especially for ambulances, military vehicles, and other emergency services. Traffic staff has also received first-aid training. The public has been urged to comply with traffic rules.

Chandigarh