Debris of a projectile found at an area, in Kutch, Gujarat
Credit: PTI Photo
Ahmedabad: At least six drones and missiles are said to have been neutralized in the border district of Kutch in the wee hour of Saturday by Indian armed forces. Later in the evening, hours after ceasefire was announced, several drone and missiles were spotted again in Kutch sky, which sources said, were also nuetralised.
Locals reported seeing drones flying in the horizon and shot videos, which are widely shared on social media. The debris of these drones were found close to civilian population where local police also rushed to take stalk of the situation.
These missiles were targeting defence installations in the district which shares border with Pakistan, the sources added. The escalating situation forced the local administration issue advisory to citizens to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement through the day.
The district was under complete blackout since Friday night after Pakistan started targeting states along the international border. Since Saturday morning, the market places remained closed with only shops selling essentials were opened.
"I woke up with my phones flooded with video footage of drones flying in the Kutch sky. One of the drone crashed close to my village Abdasa," said Razzak Hingrazia, a local from Abadasa, told DH over phone.
"The administration has issued advisory not to venture out in the market if the situation is not pressing. Last night, the government had asked for self-imposed blackout but later at around 9 PM, power was cut across the district. The situation is a bit tense but we are not scared," he added.
Sources said that the Pakistan was targeting defence installation in the district as these drones were found close to those location. In the press briefing on Saturday morning by Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Defence, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi said, "From Srinagar to Naliya (Bhuj), Pakistan targeted 26 locations."
Later in the evening after the ceasefire between India and Pakistan was announced, the district collector announced that there won't be a blackout in the night. By the evening, the citizens sighed with relief as they hit the streets in large numbers.
However, the situation became tense once again after reports of several drones having been spotted in Harami Nala and other places.
"Several drones have been spotted in the Kutch district. A complete blackout will be implemented now. Please stay safe and remain calm; Don't panic," minister of state for home Harsh Sanghavi posted on X.
Soon, the district collector ordered a blackout in the district.