Jammu, May 09 (KNO): Jammu is reeling under a wave of panic and uncertainty following recent escalations in the India-Pakistan conflict, triggered by the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, and subsequent cross-border hostilities.
Reports of explosions near the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch, coupled with a Pakistani attempt to target Jammu airport on May 8-9, have plunged the region into chaos, prompting panic buying, early market closures, evacuations, and severe traffic disruptions on key roads leading to ‘safer districts’.
Panic buying and market closures
The residents of Jammu have rushed to stock up on essentials, with reports of long queues at grocery stores, pharmacies, and fuel stations.
Social media posts on X describe a frenzied atmosphere, with ATMs running out of cash and shops struggling to keep up with demand. "Panic in #Jammu, people are rushing to stores for grocery, medicine, and essentials," a user posted on May 9.
Local authorities have urged calm, but the fear of further escalation has led to widespread hoarding. Major markets across Jammu have begun closing early as shopkeepers prioritise safety amid reports of sirens and a complete blackout enforced in Jammu and surrounding areas.
Evacuations to safer locations
Authorities have ordered evacuations from areas deemed vulnerable, particularly near border districts like Kathua, Jammu, Samba, Rajouri and Poonch.
The government has intensified security measures, with residents in high-risk zones being relocated to safer locations. It has issued helpline numbers to assist those affected, including emergency control rooms in all district headquarters. However, the scale of the evacuation has strained resources, with many residents expressing frustration over limited access to transport and information.
Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary chaired a high-level meeting with the district administration and prominent citizens of civil society at Rajouri to discuss public safety and seek suggestions regarding the evacuation and rehabilitation of the affected population.
He said the situation has escalated due to unprovoked provocation by Pakistan, necessitating precautionary measures to safeguard civilian lives. Choudhary assured that both the UT and central governments are fully committed towards ensuring the safety and timely evacuation of residents living in vulnerable areas.
Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal also conducted a comprehensive visit to District Hospital Poonch to review healthcare arrangements and ensure the facility is fully prepared to meet medical needs in case of any emergency. During the visit, the DC interacted with patients undergoing treatment and enquired about the quality of care, availability of essential medicines, and support services. He conducted a thorough inspection of various hospital wards, emergency units, and other key departments to assess overall readiness and responsiveness.
Traffic jams on Jammu-Doda-Kishtwar roads
Major roads connecting Jammu to Doda and Kishtwar have been choked with traffic as residents and tourists attempt to flee to safer areas or return to their homes from Jammu after last night’s situation on the border. There was severe congestion on the Jammu-Doda and Jammu-Kishtwar roads, with vehicles stranded for hours.
Overcharging and transport woes
Amid the chaos, reports have emerged of transporters and private operators overcharging passengers desperate to leave Jammu. Tourists and locals alike have faced inflated fares for buses, taxis, and private vehicles, with some alleging price gouging by unscrupulous operators.
Special trains from Jammu to Delhi
To alleviate the pressure on stranded passengers, the administration has launched special train services from Katra to New Delhi. Four special trains were introduced to accommodate the "extra rush" of passengers, particularly non-locals fleeing the Jammu region.
Sources indicate that additional trains are being planned to ferry residents and visitors from Jammu to Delhi and other major cities, though exact schedules remain fluid due to the ongoing crisis.
Security measures and regional tensions
The situation in Jammu remains tense, with reports of drones, missiles, and explosions in the sky contributing to widespread fear. A complete blackout was enforced on May 8, and air raid sirens were activated after Pakistan's failed attempt to target Jammu airport.
The Border Security Force (BSF) foiled a major infiltration bid in Samba district on May 8, and security forces are conducting extensive search operations in Doda and Kishtwar to dismantle terror networks linked to the Pahalgam attack.
Given the situation, the people of Jammu are left grappling with fear, uncertainty, and logistical challenges. Authorities have urged residents to cooperate with security measures and follow guidelines, but with the spectre of further conflict looming, the path to stability remains fraught—(KNO)