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Punjab on High Alert Amid Indian Strikes; Institutions Temporarily Closed, Morale Remains High
Punjab activates 'War Book' protocols after 26 civilians martyred in Indian missile strikes. Rescue services on alert, institutions shut, but morale high as public rallies in support of Pakistan Armed Forces.
ND
by News Desk
2025-05-08
Punjab on High Alert Amid Indian Strikes; Institutions Temporarily Closed, Morale Remains High

LAHORE: Following deadly missile strikes by Indian forces that claimed 26 civilian lives and injured 46 others, the Punjab government swiftly activated comprehensive emergency measures under the 'War Book' security protocols, placing the entire provincial machinery on high alert.

Rescue services have been fully mobilized, and a Central Control Room has been established to ensure real-time coordination with district authorities across Punjab. The provincial administration, in an extraordinary move, cancelled all staff holidays and instructed law enforcement agencies to remain fully deployed in anticipation of further hostilities.

Public and private educational institutions, including universities and colleges, were closed immediately, and ongoing examinations were suspended. The decision was part of a larger security strategy to prevent civilian gatherings in vulnerable areas. However, the government allowed educational activities to resume from Thursday after reviewing the situation, asserting that "further holidays are not warranted as the threat level stabilizes."

Despite the gravity of the situation, the public response was marked by extraordinary national morale. Citizens gathered in city centers and near affected sites, chanting patriotic slogans in support of the armed forces. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), were inundated with memes mocking India's military failures — trending hashtags included #SindoorBunGayaTandoor, a satirical reference to perceived Indian losses.

Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman chaired a high-level video conference with divisional and district administrators, emphasizing strict implementation of 'War Book' directives. These include activation of siren and warning systems, identification of civil defence shelters, and protection of sensitive installations.

“Vital points have been secured, and district officials are to ensure full coordination with law enforcement agencies,” said Special Secretary for Home Department Fazalur Rehman. He noted that dedicated control rooms would remain operational 24/7.

Inspector General Dr Usman Anwar reported the deployment of police at key installations and along border areas, asserting the force’s readiness to respond swiftly to any threat. The control room established in Lahore was connected to similar units in every district, enabling real-time threat monitoring and coordinated action.

While the immediate threat appears to have diminished, officials remain cautious. “Though hostilities cooled within hours, there is no room for complacency,” an official briefing stated.

Markets and bazaars reopened without restriction, underscoring the government’s resolve to maintain public normalcy despite ongoing tensions.

As the situation evolves, Punjab’s strategic preparedness reflects both a calculated defensive posture and a strong, unified civilian front in the face of aggression.
Tagged:

IndiaPakistanTensions

PunjabAlert

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