Markets Buzzing, But Schools Remain Shut Amid Lingering Caution
Ferozepur/Pathankot, May 12 — Life began to return to normal in the border districts of Punjab on Monday following four days of heightened tension and cross-border hostilities between India and Pakistan. Markets were abuzz with activity, and locals commended the armed forces for their swift and decisive response in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.Despite the return of routine activity, schools across several border districts — including Ferozepur, Fazilka, Pathankot, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and Gurdaspur — remained closed as a precautionary measure. Colleges and universities in Pathankot and Gurdaspur also suspended in-person classes, although some institutions opted for online learning alternatives.
Ceasefire Agreement Sparks Relief and Optimism
The suspension of hostilities, agreed upon by New Delhi and Islamabad on Saturday afternoon, ended a series of intense drone and missile strikes over four consecutive days. Officials across border districts reported that the situation was under control, with no blackouts imposed, though residents were urged to remain calm and avoid spreading or reacting to rumors.In Pathankot, which experienced multiple thwarted drone attacks from across the border, locals expressed both pride in the military response and hope for lasting peace.
India has taught Pakistan a lesson and successfully sent a strong message. Now Pakistan will not dare to cast an evil eye on our country," said a grocery shop owner in the city.
Villagers Return, Train Services Resume
In Ferozepur, many residents who had temporarily fled to safer areas were seen returning to their villages. "Now, most of them have returned but they remain cautious. Overall, life is normal and we are going back to our fields," said Daler Singh, a resident of Jallo Ke village, near the border.Rail connectivity also saw restoration following the ceasefire. Officials confirmed that of the 30 affected trains, 23 were cancelled, four were short-originated, four were short-terminated, and three were rescheduled during the conflict period.
On Sunday evening, district administrations in Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Pathankot, and Moga advised residents to voluntarily switch off lights and limit movement outdoors, adding another layer of vigilance amid the de-escalation.
Hope for Peace Prevails
Locals across the border districts echoed a common sentiment — relief that tensions have eased and hope that peace will endure. “The situation is normal now. We hope the ceasefire holds and peace prevails,” said a resident of Ferozepur.As everyday life resumes along Punjab's 553-km frontier with Pakistan, the sense of caution remains, but so does the resolve of communities determined to move forward with hope and resilience.
