Red Alert Declared in Rajasthan Cities Following Security Concerns

Rajasthan: Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the district administrations of Barmer, Sri Ganganagar, and Jodhpur in Rajasthan have issued red alerts, ordering all residents to immediately return to their homes and cease all public movement. The orders come in response to heightened security concerns and recent drone activity near the international border.

“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,” read an official order issued by the district collectors of the affected regions.

The alert was triggered after multiple reports surfaced early Saturday morning of Pakistani drone intrusions, prompting Indian air defence units to respond. Around 5 AM, a separate red alert was declared in these border regions after drones were detected approaching Indian airspace. However, Indian air defence systems successfully intercepted and neutralised the aerial threats. The Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF) remain on high alert along the western border.

In response to the aerial intrusion and the broader security situation, a complete blackout was enforced across several areas in the three districts from late Friday night until 6 AM on Saturday — a period spanning nearly 12 hours. During this time, power supply to non-essential services was suspended and movement was closely monitored.

Sources in the defence establishment confirmed that radar and anti-aircraft tracking systems had been fully activated. While no casualties were reported from the drone attacks, officials have expressed concern over Pakistan’s repeated attempts to test India’s air defence and provoke further hostilities.

Residents reported hearing loud noises and sirens during the night, which caused panic, especially in border towns and villages. Emergency shelters have been opened in safe zones, and local authorities are assisting families in relocating temporarily if necessary.

The situation remains tense, with live monitoring continuing across the region. Security forces are conducting aerial reconnaissance and regular patrols to prevent any further incursions.