Commercial units closed early amid possible drone attack fears

Amid fear of possible drone attacks by Pakistan, the UT Administration today ordered the closure of all shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants, clubs and shops, except for medical stores, from 7 pm to 6 am.

According to the order issued by District Magistrate Nishant Kumar Yadav, all owners, caretakers or licensees and occupants of government or private building, banks, ATMs, sports complexes, hotels, restaurants, religious places, shops in market, petrol pumps, bus stands and railway stations shall switch off all external lights/display boards, lights/streetlights, in their possession or under their supervision at 7 pm today.

Talking to mediapersons, along with SSP Kanwardeep Kaur, Yadav said all coaching institutions up to Class 12 will remain closed until further notice. He said the blackout would be announced as and when required. He said emergency announcements, including blackout alerts, may be issued on a very short notice — typically within 5 to 10 minutes. Citizens are therefore urged to remain alert and respond promptly upon receiving such messages.

For emergency assistance or clarification, residents may contact the helpline at 112.

Emergency siren guidelines

Residents have been advised to familiarise themselves with the emergency siren signals. Red alert siren is a fluctuating high-low pitched tone lasting approximately five minutes, indicating an imminent air attack or emergency situation. All clear siren is a single, continuous tone signifying the cessation of threat and return to normalcy. These sirens may be activated at any time, day or night, depending on the evolving situation.

“The Administration is currently enhancing the volume of existing sirens and installing additional units to ensure comprehensive citywide coverage,” he said.