A loud explosion was heard in Pakistan’s Lahore on Thursday morning, triggering panic across parts of the city. The blast came just a day after India launched deep missile strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
According to local media, the explosion rang out near Walton Airport. Residents in Gopal Nagar and Naseerabad reported hearing the blast and rushed out of their homes. Sirens were heard soon after, adding to the fear. The area lies close to Lahore’s central business district and army cantonment.
The cause of the explosion is still unclear. Officials have not confirmed whether it was linked to military activity or a separate incident. There are no reports yet of casualties or damage.
On Wednesday, Indian armed forces hit nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK. The operation lasted 25 minutes and was described by officials as “measured and non-escalatory”. It followed the massacre in Pahalgam, where several Indian civilians were killed.
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In response, Pakistan closed its airspace to commercial flights at both Lahore and Islamabad airports. Karachi airport remains open. Hospitals and civil defence units in Punjab province remain on alert.
The Pakistan Airports Authority said it had informed the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) about the “serious risks” posed by India’s actions. It labelled the Indian strikes “reckless and provocative”.
Though life in most cities is slowly returning to normal, tensions remain high along the border. Schools have reopened, but there is concern that further military escalation could follow.
Security forces in both countries remain on high alert. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as fears of conflict linger.