Hours after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire, explosions were reported across Srinagar, prompting concerns and questions. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voiced his surprise and concern on social media, stating, "What the hell just happened to the ceasefire? Explosions heard across Srinagar!!!".
The reports of explosions triggered air raid sirens, causing panic among the residents of Srinagar. Similar events were reported in Baramulla in North Kashmir and Budgam in Central Kashmir. In response to the escalating tension, the district administration in Firozpur, Punjab, announced the reinstatement of a blackout, urging residents to switch off all lights and remain calm, while assuring them that there was no need to panic and advising them to adhere strictly to the safety guidelines already in place.
Earlier in the day, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan had contacted his Indian counterpart earlier in the week. During their discussion, both sides agreed to a ceasefire across land, sea, and air, starting at 5 pm IST. Misri stated that directives had been issued on both sides to implement the ceasefire and that a follow-up DGMO-level dialogue was scheduled for May.
The sudden reports of explosions in Srinagar, following the ceasefire agreement, have raised concerns about the stability of the agreement and the potential for further escalation. The situation remains tense as authorities monitor the situation and work to maintain calm among the residents.