Blackout in Jammu, missiles in the sky, loud explosions heard
#News Bureau May 8,2025
Amidst a sudden blackout in Jammu, residents witnessed missiles streaking across the sky and heard loud explosions. Was this a military strike or part of a security drill? Here’s what we know so far
Several loud explosions echoed across Jammu as drones and missiles were seen streaking through the night sky, followed by a sudden complete blackout across the city. People shared videos on social media showing glowing missile-like objects overhead, after which the power supply was cut off across Jammu.
This dramatic episode unfolded amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. On the night of May 7–8, Pakistan attempted coordinated drone and missile attacks on several military bases in northern and western India, including Jammu. However, the Indian Army successfully intercepted these attacks and, in retaliation, destroyed a Pakistani air defense system in Lahore. Here’s the latest update.
Siren Alerts and Blackouts
After warning sirens blared, the administration imposed a complete blackout in Jammu city and Kupwara. Similar scenes unfolded in Amritsar, where locals reported hearing explosions near the airport, prompting the district administration to cut power as a precaution.
Missile Debris Found
On Thursday morning, missile fragments were recovered from Jethuwal, Makhan Windi, and Pandher villages in Jammu’s Kathuangal area. Residents said they heard loud blasts between 1:00 and 2:00 a.m., sparking panic.
Defense Ministry Confirms Attack
According to the Indian Defense Ministry, Pakistan attempted to strike multiple military bases — including in Jammu, Srinagar, Pathankot, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, and Bhuj — using drones and missiles. However, India’s Integrated Counter-UAS Grid and the Russian-made S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ air defense system successfully intercepted the attacks. The ministry confirmed, “Debris from the attacks has been recovered at several locations, providing clear evidence of Pakistani aggression.”
Indian Retaliation Targets Pakistani Air Defense
In a swift response, the Indian armed forces struck Pakistani air defense radars and systems at multiple locations early Thursday. A key air defense installation in Lahore was reportedly destroyed. Meanwhile, a drone strike on Lahore’s Walton Road triggered widespread panic, with residents rushing into the streets. Local media reported that flight operations at Lahore, Sialkot, and Karachi airports were temporarily suspended following the attacks.
India Emphasizes Anti-Terror Focus
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated, “Our operations were directed solely against terrorism. We carefully selected precision targets to minimize any civilian impact.”
Competing Claims Over Civilian Casualties
Pakistan claimed that 26 civilians were killed in the Indian strikes, including 13 people at the Subhan Mosque in Bahawalpur. However, India firmly rejected these claims, calling them “false and misleading,” and maintained that its strikes exclusively targeted terrorist infrastructure.
