Punjab: Permanent Blackout In Gurdaspur Amid Rising Tensions With Pakistan

In view of the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Punjab's Gurdaspur has called for a permanent blackout.

As per the official notice shared by the Deputy Commissioner of Gurdaspur, a district-wide blackout from 9 PM to 5 AM starting on Thursday and will remain this way under further notice.

As per this notice, hospitals and central jails are exempt but must ensure that windows and doors remain closed.

READ | India-Pak Tensions: Schools Closed In Border States In Second Consecutive Day | Full List

"Due to the sensitive environment on the Indo-Pak border, as per the directives of the Government of India and Government of Punjab, there will be a complete blackout in district Gurdaspur from May 8, 2025 till further orders," reads the notice.

"The order shall not apply to Central Jail, Gurdaspur and hospitals, but departments must ensure that the windows of Central Jail Gurdaspur and hospitals are kept close from 9 PM to 5 AM daily and also cover them so that no light can escape," the notice added further.

Amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Home Affairs ordered war mock drills across the country, which comprised of blackouts, air raid sirens and mass evacuations.

As tensions increased, border towns in Rajasthan and Punjab have been placed on high alert, prompting closure of schools, cancelling of leaves for police personnel and implementing strict blackout measures.