In response to escalating cross-border hostilities, the Rawalpindi district administration has enforced a complete citywide blackout from 7 PM to 5 AM, effective immediately, as part of a broader civil defence strategy.
The urgent directive, issued late Wednesday, instructs that all streetlights be switched off, and residents must turn off external lights, including those on rooftops, porches, and in driveways.
Citizens have also been advised to cover their windows and reduce indoor lighting to avoid detection from aerial surveillance.
Officials emphasised that the blackout is a critical security precaution designed to enhance civil protection and support operational readiness of the armed forces amid ongoing hostilities.
Residents have been strongly urged to remain indoors and avoid non-essential movement during the blackout hours. Law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert to ensure compliance and maintain public order.
The measure follows India’s unprovoked late-night missile strikes on civilian areas across six Pakistani cities, which officials have described as a “declaration of war under the cover of darkness.” At least 30 civilians lost their lives, while over 45 were wounded in the targeted bombardment.
In a swift retaliatory operation, the Pakistan Armed Forces shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft, and destroyed key military installations, among them a brigade headquarters.
Reports indicate that Indian forces raised a white flag at the Chora complex along the Line of Control, a gesture widely seen as symbolic admission of battlefield losses.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar confirmed Wednesday morning that Pakistan’s response inflicted significant damage, including the downing of a drone and the obliteration of multiple Indian border posts.
He affirmed that counteroffensive operations remain underway, with the military on high alert and fully prepared for any further aggression.
