Rajasthan: Barmer on red alert amid India-Pak tensions; advisory issued

Hindustan Times

10-05-2025

Barmer: A high-level red alert was issued in Rajasthan's Barmer at 10am on Saturday, as escalating tensions between India and Pakistan entered the fourth day. Authorities ordered immediate closure of all markets and instructed residents to return home and stay off the roads.
District collector and civil defence controller Tina Dabi issued the high-alert directive, stating: 'All residents are ordered to immediately return to their homes. Markets must be closed, and all public movement is to cease with immediate effect. Authorities have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of these orders. This is an urgent notice.'
Earlier in the day, at 5am, another red alert was issued after drone attacks were reportedly launched from across the Pakistani border. However, Indian defence systems successfully intercepted and neutralised the threats. A complete blackout remained in effect until 6am, lasting nearly 12 hours.
The city had plunged into darkness, with movement slowly resumed after sunrise. A third red alert was sounded at 5.30am and remained in effect until 7.09am, with sirens blaring continuously. Security agencies remained on high alert throughout.
During the blackout, sirens echoed throughout the night. Police were stationed across the city, maintaining strict vigilance. From 6pm on Friday, Barmer's streets emptied, shops shut down, and only security personnel were seen at key checkpoints. Residents cooperated fully, turning off all lights—even inverter-powered ones—and staying indoors as directed.
The attacks began Thursday night, targeting Ramgarh, Jaisalmer, and Pokhran, with Barmer joining the list of targets on Friday. With drone threats reportedly intercepted earlier in the morning and multiple air raid siren conducted throughout the day, residents in Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Sri Ganganagar were ordered to stay indoors and markets were shut.
In view of the high-red alert in Barmer, the district administration has issued a strict advisory, urging all residents from villages and nearby towns not to travel towards Barmer city. The advisory was released by Dabi includes:
Air raid and incoming projectile response: Citizens must be prepared at all times—day or night—for the possibility of air raids or incoming projectiles. Upon hearing sirens or official alerts, residents are advised to take immediate shelter in a safe location and remain there until a clearance signal is issued.
Blackout protocols: In the event of a declared blackout, complete compliance is mandatory. Citizens are instructed to switch off or cover all lights in homes, offices, and establishments to prevent light leaks, especially after sunset. Only venture outside in extreme emergencies, and minimise all outdoor activities during nighttime hours.
Information dissemination: Essential information will be shared via WhatsApp messages, public announcements, and other communication channels. Residents are requested to take all such messages seriously and help circulate them responsibly.
Avoid public gatherings: People should remain indoors whenever possible, avoid crowded areas, and refrain from organizing or participating in group gatherings, even under normal circumstances.
Suspicious object alert: If any citizen comes across a suspicious item—such as an object resembling a bomb, drone, or weapon—they must not approach, touch, or attempt to photograph or film it. Instead, they should immediately inform local authorities or the police and maintain a safe distance.
Fake news and panic: The public has been strongly advised to ignore and not forward rumors or unverified news. Any panic-inducing behaviour or misinformation could disrupt emergency responses and harm public morale.