In a precautionary move, an Indigo flight that was en route to Amritsar in Punjab returned to Delhi on Monday after multiple drone sightings were reported in various parts of Punjab and Jammu, raising security concerns in the region.
The flight, which had departed from Delhi, was forced to turn back due to the detection of drones flying over Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba region and Punjab’s Jalandhar. The sightings came shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation, intensifying fears of potential threats from unmanned aerial vehicles.
Drone Sightings and Security Response
Reports indicated that around 15 drones were spotted hovering above the Northern Command and the Air Force Station in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, while five drones were seen in the direction of Katra. Local authorities reacted quickly to the emerging situation, issuing urgent warnings and reinforcing security measures.
Visuals from Samba captured ominous red streaks across the sky, accompanied by explosion sounds. In response, India’s air defense systems were activated, successfully intercepting the aerial objects. The situation led to the immediate enforcement of a blackout in the affected areas, including Pathankot, Vaishno Devi Bhawan, and the Yatra track.
Explosions Heard in Hoshiarpur and Jalandhar
In addition to the drone sightings, locals in the Dasuya area of Punjab’s Hoshiarpur reported hearing 7-8 explosions. The explosions were accompanied by heightened security alerts in the region. Hoshiarpur’s Deputy Commissioner, Aashika Jain, confirmed the occurrence of the blasts, though the exact cause of the explosions remains unclear.
In Jalandhar, the Deputy Commissioner also issued an urgent advisory regarding drone sightings near key army establishments. Explosions were heard near Suranasi village in the district, further adding to the tension in the area.
Authorities Ramp Up Vigilance
As the security situation escalated, authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The air defense systems were on high alert, and security personnel were deployed at sensitive locations to prevent any potential threats.
The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, and the government has assured the public that it is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. The authorities are continuing to investigate the source and purpose of the drones, with no immediate confirmation of whether the sightings were part of a coordinated threat or isolated incidents.
As the investigation unfolds, air travel in the region remains under heightened scrutiny, with airlines and airports reinforcing their security protocols to ensure the safety of passengers.
Sources By Agencies
