Air Sirens In Chandigarh and Ambala, Residents Advised To Stay Indoors as IAF Warns of Possible Attack by Pakistan

New Delhi: Chandigarh remained on high alert on Friday after the Indian Air Force (IAF) warned of a possible aerial attack from Pakistan. Sirens blared across the city early in the morning, triggering panic and precautionary measures.

Authorities advised residents to stay indoors and avoid windows, balconies, and glass areas, especially in Sectors 45 to 47. The warning was issued through an official message from the Chandigarh Deputy Commissioner and DC Mohali.

The warning came from the Air Force Station, and local authorities in Chandigarh and Mohali quickly issued public safety messages. The sirens were mainly heard in Sectors 45 to 47.

"An air warning has been received from the Air Force. Everyone should stay indoors and avoid balconies," said the Deputy Commissioner of Chandigarh.

High Court Suspends Work, Blackout Alerts Issued

Following this, work at the Punjab and Haryana High Court was suspended. Judges heard only urgent matters, and most lawyers did not attend work. The court serves Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh.

While most residents followed the instructions, some streetlights and solar-powered lights stayed on. Many vehicles were still on the roads with headlights, even though people were asked to follow blackout rules.

On Thursday, the Chandigarh administration had already taken steps to prepare for such emergencies. Officials said they would increase the number of sirens from 20 to 50. They also said satellite phones would be used if mobile networks stopped working. The civil defence team was also being strengthened, and staff would get uniforms.

Though electricity was restored by midnight on Friday, people were still told to keep lights off at home and outside.

Ambala Also on Alert 

Ambala also placed on high alert after receiving a similar warning from the Air Force Station. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Ambala, “An air warning has been received from the Air Force station of a possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and away from balconies.”

In Mohali, a two-hour blackout was ordered on Thursday night around 9:30 pm. DC Komal Mittal said this was done based on inputs that Pakistan might try something. People were told to turn off all lights, stay inside, and follow instructions. “This is a safety measure,” she said.