Air raid sirens activated amid attack threat: Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula up defences, blackout ordered

CHANDIGARH/MOHALI/ PANCHKULA: The air raid sirens were activated in the city, and a blackout was declared at around 9.30 pm. In a message circulated to different resident and market associations, the Chandigarh DC said, “Keeping in view the ongoing emergency situation, all the residents are requested to immediately respond to the sound of the siren and switch off all the lights.They are also advised not to venture outside or onto the rooftops.”While the residents switched off the lights, in several locations, there was a long delay in switching off the streetlights. Additionally, the solar lights remained switched on even as the sirens blared. Vehicles could be seen on the street with their lights on.Earlier in the day, the Chandigarh administration started strengthening the civil defence system in the city. “Satellite phones will be used in case of communication breakdown. Strengthening the Control Room of Civil Defence will be done. Air raid warning systems will be increased from 20 to 50. Uniforms will be given to civil defence personnel,” said a UT spokesperson.Power supply from the grid was restrored after midnight. However, the DC urged citizens to observe voluntary blackout.In view of a potential threat of attack from Pakistan, a two-hour blackout was enforced in Mohali around 9.30pm, Mohali DC Komal Mittal said.All residents were requested to turn off lights, including street and outdoor lighting; minimise movement outside unless absolutely necessary; and stay indoors and remain calm. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all citizens, so please cooperate fully with local authorities, the DC said.A brief period of confusion gripped Panchkula on Thursday night as a blackout was imposed across the city.The sudden shutdown led to uncertainty among residents, many of whom were unaware of the directive and had not turned off their lights. The confusion was partly attributed to the lack of a robust air siren system in the city. This led to a delayed response, with many homes remaining lit for several minutes after the blackout began.Streetlights too remained on for a considerable time before being eventually turned off. Later, as information spread through word of mouth and digital messages, more residents complied and switched off their lights.The blackout will remain in force throughout the night, added the Panchkula DC.