Islamabad: In a significant escalation of regional tensions, the Government of Pakistan has imposed a nationwide emergency lockdown, with a particular focus on Punjab province and border areas, following a series of retaliatory missile strikes by India late Thursday night.
The emergency decision was made after Indian forces launched missiles targeting key Pakistani locations including Lahore, Sialkot, and Faisalabad, in response to earlier drone and missile attacks by Pakistan on Indian military zones in Jammu, Udhampur, Pathankot, and Jaisalmer.
Casualties and Response
According to initial reports, the Indian strikes resulted in at least 26 deaths and over 45 injuries across Pakistan. Emergency services have been overwhelmed, and hospitals in Punjab have been instructed to remain on 24/7 high alert, with all leaves for medical staff cancelled immediately.
In response, the Pakistani federal cabinet held an emergency session, declaring an internal security emergency and enforcing a strict lockdown across multiple cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Karachi, and Peshawar. Public gatherings have been banned, educational institutions have been closed indefinitely, and curfews are being enforced in sensitive districts.
Security Measures Intensified
Security agencies, including the Pakistan Army, Punjab Police, and Intelligence Bureau, have been mobilized to secure critical infrastructure. Border regions along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Working Boundary have been fortified, and additional troops have been deployed to strategic locations.
All flights in and out of Lahore, Sialkot, and Islamabad were suspended for several hours, though partial airspace reopening began early Friday morning. Nighttime blackouts have also been reported in several regions including Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with power shutoffs being used as a precaution against aerial detection.
Government Statement
A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior stated:
“In light of the unprovoked aggression from the Indian side and in order to protect civilian lives, the government has invoked emergency protocols nationwide. The safety of our people remains paramount.”
Public Reaction and Civil Defense
Panic buying was observed in major cities as citizens rushed to stock up on essentials. Emergency shelters have been opened in school buildings and community halls, with the public advised to stay indoors and avoid all non-essential travel.
Local administrations across the country have issued advisories to maintain calm and cooperate with security and civil defense forces.
International Concerns
The sudden escalation has drawn concern from international observers, with calls for restraint and de-escalation being echoed by multiple foreign embassies. Diplomatic channels are reportedly active, but the situation remains volatile.
Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for real-time updates and verified information.
