On Thursday morning, a series of loud blasts echoed through Walton Road in Lahore, specifically in the Gopal Nagar and Naseerabad areas near Walton Airport, causing panic among residents. Frightened locals rushed out of their homes upon hearing the explosions and reported visible smoke clouds in the vicinity.
According to police sources, an Indian surveillance drone, measuring approximately 5 to 6 feet, was intercepted and brought down near Walton Airport.
Read more: Pakistan Army Downs Another Indian Drone, Continues Strong Response to Aggression
The drone, reportedly launched from across the border, was carrying explosives and had approached a sensitive facility. Authorities confirmed the drone was neutralized by jamming its control system before it could carry out any potential threat.
Security forces and emergency responders swiftly arrived at the scene to manage the situation.
In a separate development earlier that morning, heightened regional tensions prompted the temporary closure of several major air routes in Lahore and Sialkot. Airport officials confirmed that the airspace restrictions began early Thursday and were scheduled to remain in place until noon, as indicated in a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).
These restrictions disrupted several Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights. A flight from Medina headed for Lahore was redirected to Karachi, and another from Multan to Lahore was also diverted to Karachi due to operational challenges caused by the airspace closures.
