Bus with 39 Students Heads to Jammu After Drone Threats; Ceasefire Announced
Shimla, May 10 – In a swift response to rising tensions following overnight drone attacks by Pakistan on strategic sites in Jammu and Kashmir, a group of 39 students from Himachal Pradesh studying in Srinagar began their journey home on Saturday.The move comes after multiple Pakistani attempts to target critical Indian installations, including the Srinagar airport and the Awantipora air base in south Kashmir, were foiled late Friday night. These provocations triggered emergency measures, but were followed by a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both nations agreed to halt all military actions on land, air, and sea starting 5 PM Saturday.
Emergency Transport Arranged by J&K and Himachal Authorities
Following a request from the Himachal Pradesh government, the Jammu and Kashmir administration arranged a special bus to transport the students safely. The bus departed Srinagar at 11 AM on Saturday and was initially expected to arrive in Jammu by 5 PM. However, due to heavy traffic congestion near Banihal on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the arrival was delayed.According to a statement from the Himachal Pradesh government, the bus is now expected to reach Jammu later in the evening.
CM Sukhu Ensures Free and Safe Return
Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) Managing Director Nipun Jindal confirmed that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been closely monitoring the situation. State officials remain in continuous coordination with counterparts in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab to facilitate the safe return of the students.An HRTC bus has already been dispatched to Jammu and will ferry the students to Jasur in Himachal's Kangra district. Due to the delay, the students will now be brought to Jasur on Sunday morning, from where additional transport will take them to their respective hometowns.
Chief Minister Sukhu has ordered that the entire journey back to Himachal Pradesh be provided free of cost, reaffirming the state’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its youth.
Accommodation arrangements have been made for the students in Jammu to ensure their comfort during the overnight stay.
Ceasefire Brings Temporary Relief
The bus operation unfolded in the backdrop of heightened tensions that were defused by a sudden ceasefire agreement. The coordinated ceasefire move, announced shortly after US President Donald Trump acknowledged talks between India and Pakistan, marks a significant yet cautious step toward regional de-escalation.Authorities on both sides hope the ceasefire will bring stability, even as the situation remains under close watch.