In a night marked by cross-border hostilities and rising domestic health concerns, India faced challenges on two fronts — a foiled Pakistani attack targeting the Uri hydroelectric plant during Operation Sindoor, and increasing warnings from experts over deteriorating air quality in major Indian cities. The dual developments underscore the need for strengthened national security preparedness as well as urgent public health responses.
Pakistan Targets Uri Hydropower Plant, CISF Foils Attack Amid Heavy Gunfire
New Delhi:
Just hours after the Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor across the Line of Control (LoC), Pakistan attempted to strike back by targeting the strategic Uri Hydro Electric Power Projects (UHEP-I and II), located only a few kilometres from the LoC.
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for the plant’s protection, confirmed on Tuesday that its personnel successfully foiled Pakistan’s attempted attack, ensuring that no damage or casualties occurred.
The CISF revealed that the retaliatory shelling by the Pakistan Army endangered essential infrastructure and civilian populations living in close proximity to the hydropower complex. Despite intense artillery fire, CISF teams led by Commandant Ravi Yadav quickly initiated protective protocols to safeguard the installations.
Drones Neutralised, Civilians Evacuated Amid Shelling
In its official statement, CISF noted that several hostile Pakistani drones attempted to target key infrastructure but were intercepted and neutralised mid-air. The force also secured armoury stockpiles and redistributed weapons to prevent their destruction during the escalation.
One senior officer familiar with the nightlong confrontation said the hydropower projects were “among the first targets”, given their proximity to the LoC.
He noted:
“The intelligence network was strong, and the on-ground response was swift. Not only were drones neutralised, but a massive evacuation effort saved countless lives.”
As shells landed dangerously close to residential quarters, CISF personnel conducted door-to-door rescues, safely moving women, children, and NHPC staff families to secure shelters — all while gunfire and explosions continued.
19 CISF Personnel Honoured for Bravery
In recognition of extraordinary courage, 19 CISF personnel were awarded the Director General’s Disc at a ceremony in New Delhi.
The citations highlight their composure under fire, operational expertise, and successful preservation of one of India’s most critical energy assets.
🌫 India Battles Rising Pollution: Experts Warn of Health Impact
Even as India managed military tensions in the north, a domestic health crisis continues to intensify due to poor air quality across major metros.
Cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata have consistently recorded “unhealthy” levels of pollution — prompting medical experts to call for immediate personal preventive measures.
Air Quality Index Crossing Danger Marks
In several cities, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has repeatedly crossed the 300+ “very poor” threshold.
With particulate matter on the rise, experts warn that prolonged exposure may cause:
- Respiratory infections
- Worsening asthma
- Reduced immunity
- Long-term cardiovascular risks
Lifestyle and general physician Dr Akshat Chadha, based in Mumbai, has issued a comprehensive anti-pollution diet plan to help citizens strengthen their immunity during high-pollution episodes.
🍵 Doctor-Recommended Morning Routine to Combat Pollution
Dr Chadha emphasises that how one starts their day plays a crucial role in protecting the body from pollution-induced harm.
Recommended Morning Drink
He advises:
✔ Warm water as a basic start
If time allows, add:
- 3–4 teaspoons turmeric (or kawa haldi)
- A pinch of black pepper
- ¼ to ½ lemon
- 3–5 tulsi leaves
- 2–3 cloves (on alternate days)
This mix is designed to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Improve respiratory resistance
- Detoxify pollutants
- Strengthen immunity
🔍 Why the Pollution Problem Is Now More Dangerous
Experts say this season’s pollution spike is more harmful because:
1️⃣ Pollutants Are More Toxic
Higher levels of PM2.5 and sulphur compounds (SO₂) enter the bloodstream faster.
2️⃣ Lower Winter Wind Speeds
Pollutants stay trapped near the ground and accumulate.
3️⃣ Lifestyle Patterns
Reduced physical activity and increased indoor time worsen respiratory stress.
4️⃣ High Stress + High Pollution
Doctors worldwide are now linking chronic stress to pollution-triggered inflammation.
🇮🇳 India Faces Dual Challenges: National Security & Public Health
The two back-to-back developments — a foiled attack on the Uri hydropower project and escalating air pollution across metros — highlight India’s need to reinforce both security preparedness and environmental health strategies.
At the Border:
Pakistan’s targeting of critical infrastructure only reinforces the vulnerability of vital national assets near the LoC.
In the Cities:
The public health system faces rising risk as urban populations endure hazardous air quality.
As winter deepens, authorities remain on alert for both borders — the geopolitical and the environmental.
