Himachal Pradesh News
Kullu News : Pak Balloon Found in Kullu Village, Security Alert Sounded
Panic spread in Bashla village of the Nither area in Kullu district after a balloon bearing markings of Pakistan International Airlines was found in an agricultural field on Tuesday, prompting security agencies to swing into action.
Panic spread in Bashla village of the Nither area in Kullu district after a balloon bearing markings of Pakistan International Airlines was found in an agricultural field on Tuesday, prompting security agencies to swing into action.
The aircraft-shaped balloon was first spotted by Rajni, a ward member from Ward No. 5, who immediately informed Shilli gram panchayat president Joginder Thakur. Taking the matter seriously, Thakur alerted the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Nirmand, who issued clear instructions that the object should not be touched under any circumstances.
Soon after, a police team reached the spot, secured the balloon and initiated a detailed investigation. The balloon reportedly has the letters “SGA” written on it in both Urdu and English, further raising concerns among local residents.
Officials said similar balloons bearing seals or markings of Pakistan International Airlines have earlier been recovered from Kangra and Una districts. Over the past few years, such balloons have surfaced intermittently in different parts of Himachal Pradesh, though their source, route and purpose remain unclear.
In view of the incident, the Kullu district police have heightened vigilance. Senior officials stated that preliminary examination has not revealed the presence of any spying device, chip or technical equipment inside the balloon. No evidence of espionage or other suspicious activity has been found so far, though further examination is underway as a precaution.
The district administration has advised all panchayats to remain alert and directed residents to immediately inform the police if they notice any suspicious object or activity in their areas.
Kullu Superintendent of Police Madan Lal Kaushal confirmed that the balloon has been taken into police custody. “So far, no suspicious equipment or spying chip has been found inside the Pakistani balloon. However, the matter is being thoroughly investigated,” he said.
