Drone Attack Near Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab, Close to Kartarpur Corridor; Indian Army Intercepts Threat

Tensions flared along the India-Pakistan border on Friday evening after a suspected Pakistani drone was intercepted near Dera Baba Nanak, close to the Kartarpur Corridor in Punjab’s Gurdaspur district. The Indian Army successfully neutralized the threat by shooting down the drone mid-air, averting potential damage to civilian areas.

This incident marks another in a series of provocations originating from across the border. Similar drone intrusions have been reported recently in Punjab's Firozpur region and parts of Rajasthan. Eyewitnesses reported spotting more than half a dozen drones around the Kartarpur corridor area in recent days. Fortunately, India’s air defense systems intercepted and neutralized all of them.

Although no fatalities have been reported, there are unconfirmed accounts of minor injuries. Local residents have expressed fear and unease following the repeated aerial intrusions. In response, police and district administration officials have urged people to remain indoors and remain vigilant.

Kartarpur Corridor Suspended Amid Security Operation

Amid growing security concerns, the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor has been temporarily shut down from Wednesday as part of Operation Sindoor. Movement across the corridor has drastically reduced, with the Indian government suspending access via the official Kartarpur Sahib pilgrimage website.

Security has been significantly bolstered along the Zero Line, with checkpoints and patrols increased on both sides of the border.

Spiritual and Strategic Significance of the Corridor

The Kartarpur Corridor, which connects the Dera Baba Nanak in India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, holds deep spiritual significance for the Sikh community. It marks the site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the final 18 years of his life and attained his heavenly abode. Recognizing its importance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the visa-free corridor on 9 November 2019, facilitating pilgrimage without the need for a visa.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and further updates are expected as investigations continue.