India-Pakistan LIVE Updates: Blackouts, drone attacks, explosions: WATCH FOOTAGE

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated for the second straight day as reports of blackouts, explosions, and drone interceptions came in from several northern states on Friday evening.

#WATCH | J&K | Red streaks seen and explosions can be heard as India's air defence intercepts Pakistani drones amid blackout in Rajouri

(Visuals deferred by an unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/rSTkTKY0IV

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2025

A complete power blackout was reported in Jammu, Jaisalmer, and Ferozepur. Loud explosions were heard in Jammu, while air defence systems intercepted Pakistani drones over Samba, Pathankot, Pokhran, Akhnoor, and other areas, ANI reported.

The Indian Army launched a major anti-drone operation along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border after Pakistan attempted to send multiple swarm drones into Indian territory. Air Defence units successfully shot down drones over Udhampur, Samba, Jammu, Akhnoor, Nagrota, and Pathankot, officials confirmed.

Meanwhile, Pakistan resumed heavy shelling and artillery fire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Uri sector Friday evening, triggering alarms and sirens across several cities.

High-Level Emergency Meetings Underway

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened an urgent meeting with the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force to discuss the evolving situation under “Operation Sindoor.” National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also joined the meeting at the PM’s residence.

Separately, Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed security measures with the heads of India’s border forces and discussed the tightening of airport security with CISF officials.

Widespread Blackouts Across Jammu and Kashmir

Locals reported blackouts across Kathua, Samba, Jammu, Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, and Srinagar. Authorities confirmed the blackouts were precautionary to minimize civilian risk amid rising cross-border hostilities.

24 Airports Closed Amid Security Threat

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced the closure of 24 airports until May 14 due to security concerns. The list includes key airports in Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Pathankot, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and others.

The decision follows Thursday night’s massive drone and missile attack by Pakistan, where an estimated 300-400 Turkish-made drones targeted areas in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. India’s air defence responded swiftly, triggering air raid sirens and widespread blackouts.

Damage Reported on Religious Sites

Videos on social media showed damage from Pakistani shelling to a temple, mosque, and gurudwara in Poonch district. One house was reportedly destroyed, while another partially damaged structure was demolished today as a safety measure, ANI visuals showed.