Airbases targeted, flights grounded as Indo-Pak conflict escalates
KATHMANDU: South Asia stands on the brink of a serious security crisis as Pakistan has officially launched a retaliatory military campaign, dubbed “Operation Banyan Mercies,” following what it claims were Indian missile strikes on three of its military airbases.
According to Pakistani military sources, one of the targets was the Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi, located just 10 kilometers from Islamabad, which is considered a key military hub for Pakistan’s armed forces.
Speaking to the press, the spokesperson for the Pakistani military confirmed the missile strikes, categorizing them as “minor in nature” and claiming that Pakistan’s defense systems effectively neutralized the threat. The spokesperson added that the situation is under control, while urging citizens to remain vigilant.
India Yet to Respond; Civilian Flights Suspended
Despite the grave allegations, India has not yet issued any official response. However, amid growing tensions, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has imposed a temporary suspension on all civilian flights from 32 airports in the northern and western regions of the country. The flight ban will remain effective until 5:29 AM on May 15, as outlined in a formal Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).
The affected airports include major and strategic hubs such as Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, Jodhpur, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot, among others. National carrier Air India announced the suspension of all flights to these destinations and closed terminal access for non-travelers. Air marshals have also been deployed to ensure heightened airport security.
Analysts believe the move is a precautionary response to escalating conflict risks and the possibility of unforeseen aerial incidents due to heightened military activity in the region.
Pakistan Closes Airspace, Reports Civilian Distress
In response to the increasing tension, Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority closed its airspace from 3:15 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, causing significant disruption to both domestic and international flights.
Meanwhile, residents in Pakistan’s border areas are reportedly living in fear, as international media report a severe lack of safe shelters or bunkers. Continued exchanges of gunfire and missile strikes along the Line of Control (LoC) have intensified these fears. The areas of Kupwara, Karnah, Tangdhar, Uri, and Poonch on the Indian side have also witnessed heavy shelling since Friday evening.
‘Operation Banyan Mercies’: Pakistan’s Response to ‘Sindoor’
According to Pakistan’s military, the retaliatory operation was launched in response to India’s covert action, referred to in some quarters as “Sindoor.” Islamabad has termed the Indian strikes as a de facto declaration of war, though it maintains that all Pakistani military actions are being taken transparently and with prior announcement.
Unconfirmed reports suggest a major explosion occurred in the Udhampur region of Indian-administered Kashmir following Pakistan’s announcement of its military response. Alarms have been sounding in the area, and residents are said to be in a state of panic.
Calls for International Mediation
Security analysts warn that the escalating conflict poses a serious threat to regional stability and could spiral into a full-scale war if not contained. Many are now calling on the international community to urgently intervene diplomatically to de-escalate the situation and prevent a potential humanitarian crisis.
As both nations remain on high alert and military deployments increase across border regions, the world watches closely, hoping the crisis can still be steered toward a peaceful resolution before it crosses the point of no return.
