Explosions in Srinagar; Udhampur attacked by drones, sirens blare: Reports

Just hours after India and Pakistan announced a ceasefire to begin at 1700 hours IST on Saturday, explosions were reported in Srinagar and heavy shelling in Udhampur. Blackouts were declared in both cities, and air raid sirens were sounded. Multiple explosions were heard across Srinagar, and light streaks were seen in the night sky, indicating potential aerial activity. Authorities responded by enforcing emergency blackout protocols in affected areas.

Sources confirmed that Pakistani small arms and mortar fire were reported along the Line of Control in some sectors, and drones were sighted in airspaces over Jammu and Kashmir and Rajasthan. In Barmer district of Rajasthan, the District Magistrate issued an alert for an “incoming air raid” and called for an “urgent blackout” in the city. This marks a continuation of reported cross-border activities over the past two nights.

At 9:15 pm, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted a video of a blast and light trails in the sky, stating, “This is no ceasefire. The air defence units in the middle of Srinagar just opened up.” In a prior post at 9:00 pm, he had written, “What the hell just happened to the ceasefire? Explosions heard across Srinagar.” His statements came as reports of explosions circulated on social media and local channels.

The ceasefire was announced after a call between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan at 15:35 IST. Both sides agreed to stop all military action on land, sea, and air starting 1700 IST. Former US President Donald Trump, who facilitated the talks, announced the development on social media. India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the ceasefire agreement and added that the DGMOs will speak again on May 12 at 1200 hours. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed the ceasefire and reiterated Pakistan’s stand on maintaining peace while safeguarding sovereignty.