Panchkula, May 9 — In a significant security move, the Panchkula district administration has declared a complete blackout across the district beginning Friday at 7 PM, citing the prevailing regional situation. The directive comes as part of precautionary steps in response to growing tensions between India and Pakistan.
All markets in Panchkula have been ordered to shut by 7 PM, with all external lighting—across commercial, religious, and public spaces—to remain turned off until further notice. “In view of the current situation, it is hereby directed that all owners, caretakers, licensees, lessees, public authorities, and occupants of government or private buildings switch off all external lights and display board lights in their premises starting at 7:00 PM every day till further orders,” read the official order from the office of the Deputy Commissioner, District Magistrate, and Collector of Panchkula.
The blackout order applies to a wide range of establishments, including banks, ATMs, hotels, restaurants, sports complexes, religious places, golf clubs, parks, advertisement boards, liquor shops, petrol pumps, mining sites, bus stands, railway stations, and even street lighting along roads and bridges.
Further, the administration has directed that in the event of a siren alarm, all internal lights must also be switched off immediately.
Officials have stressed strict compliance with the order, stating that the District Information and Public Relations Officer is responsible for ensuring wide publicity of these directives.
The blackout remains in force until further notice, as authorities continue to monitor the situation. While no specific threat has been disclosed publicly, the language of the directive signals a serious concern for public safety and strategic readiness.
The move aligns with similar precautionary measures being enforced across several regions in northern India as military and civil administrations prepare for possible escalation following heightened border tensions.
