In response to escalating military tensions between Pakistan and India, the Punjab government has announced the immediate closure of all educational institutions across the province until May 11, with reopening set for May 12. The announcement was made by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, who emphasized the importance of student and staff safety during this uncertain time.
The situation intensified early Thursday morning when three loud explosions were heard in Lahore’s Walton Road and nearby areas, sending waves of panic among residents. People rushed out of their homes in fear, unsure of the source or nature of the blasts. According to Lahore Police, the explosions occurred in rapid succession and were powerful enough to be heard several kilometers away, causing confusion and fear among the public.
This alarming local incident unfolded shortly after a significant military escalation. On May 7, Pakistan Armed Forces reportedly shot down five Indian Air Force (IAF) jets, a combat drone, and destroyed several brigade headquarters and checkposts along the Line of Control (LoC). The action came in response to missile strikes launched by India on multiple Pakistani cities, including Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Ahmedpur Sharqia Bagh, and Muridke, as confirmed by DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry in a press briefing.
Labeling the Indian attacks as a “cowardly act,” DG ISPR stated that these strikes were launched from Indian airspace and deliberately targeted civilian areas. “These attacks will not go unpunished,” he warned.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking to CNN, revealed that even Indian media had acknowledged the crash of three aircraft within Indian-occupied Kashmir. He further condemned the attacks for targeting innocent civilians, including women and children—calling it a direct violation of international law.
In a televised national address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned India’s actions, describing them as a “grave mistake” and assuring the nation that Pakistan would respond with resolve. He praised the armed forces for their swift and effective retaliation, calling for national unity in the face of aggression.
Meanwhile, the decision to close schools has drawn widespread support from parents and educational institutions across Punjab, as the safety of students remains the top priority. Authorities have urged the public to stay calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and rely on official updates for the latest developments.
Security has been tightened across major cities, and emergency protocols have been activated to monitor the situation closely. While the government hopes for a de-escalation, all sectors remain on high alert as the regional situation evolves.
This development marks one of the most serious escalations in recent years between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, with the international community closely watching the unfolding events.
