Multiple explosions rocked the Jammu region and surrounding areas late Thursday, triggering blackouts and panic among residents. The attacks involved drones, missiles, and heavy artillery firing across the International Border and the Line of Control.
Air raid sirens sounded throughout the area as India's air defense systems engaged incoming projectiles. Residents reported seeing lights streaking across the sky, indicating interceptions.
The incidents impacted several locations, including Jammu city, the Jammu airport and airstrip, the Satwari cantonment, Jammu university, Samba, Akhnoor, Kupwara, Baramulla, and Udhampur. Blackouts were also reported in towns across the border in Punjab, including Pathankot and Gurudaspur. Mobile and internet services in the affected areas were disrupted.
These attacks occurred hours after India carried out strikes on what it described as nine terror camps located within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Those strikes, code-named "Operation Sindoor", were in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
India's S-400 air defense system was credited with downing eight missiles fired towards the region. Authorities confirmed that multiple drones were intercepted or shot down in various locations, including near Jammu university and in Pathankot and Udhampur. One drone reportedly struck the Jammu airport.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab issued a high alert following intelligence reports of potential Fidayeen attacks. Pakistan responded by placing healthcare centers on alert and canceling leave for government and security personnel.
