As tensions continue to escalate along the India-Pakistan border, heavy shelling and drone incursions targeted civilian areas in Jammu and Kashmir late Thursday night, leaving residents shaken and property damaged.
According to locals, the ordeal began around 8 PM when 3–4 drones were spotted in the skies over Jammu, followed by intense cross-border firing that lasted throughout the night. “There was a complete blackout, then drones flew overhead and firing began. It went on till early morning. Our forces responded strongly,” said a resident.
Many households bore the brunt of the artillery fire, with visuals showing damaged homes and shattered windows in border villages. “My house’s entire front has been damaged. My relatives’ homes too. The shelling was very heavy. But we are with the Army,” said a local from Rajouri.
Despite the fear and disruption, residents voiced solidarity with the Indian Armed Forces, condemning Pakistan’s targeting of civilian areas. “Attacking civilians is cowardly. Our Army is giving a befitting reply. We are proud of them,” one resident said.
In response to the security threat, schools, colleges, and educational institutions in Udhampur have been closed for the day.
The attack follows a massive counter-drone operation by the Indian Army, during which over 50 Pakistani drones were shot down across Udhampur, Samba, Jammu, Akhnoor, Nagrota, and Pathankot on Thursday night. The operation successfully neutralised threats aimed at both military and civilian targets, preventing any casualties.
While the border remains tense, locals expressed trust in the Armed Forces and government, stating that the situation, though alarming, was under control.
