Mobile phone users across the country received test messages titled “extremely severe alert” on Saturday as the Union government rolled out a mass broadcast system aimed at alerting people in disaster situations. The message, which flashed on mobile phones with sharp beeping sounds
The central bank had declared the withdrawal of Rs 2,000 notes from circulation on May 19, 2023, as part of its currency management exercise. New Delhi: The Reserve Bank of India on Friday said that 98.47 per cent of the Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes in circulation have been returned
China's Commerce Ministry has blocked U.S. sanctions on five Chinese oil refiners. These companies were accused of purchasing oil from Iran. The U.S. Treasury had previously imposed sanctions on Hengli Petrochemical and four other refineries. China states these sanctions violate international law
Chandigarh: MC staffer found murdered in Manimajra forest areaAccording to police, Krishan Kumar had left for duty on Friday, scheduled from 9am to 4pm, but did not return home. His family informed police on Saturday morning and later, the body was found in the nearby forest area
Weekly Love Horoscope for May 3-9, 2026: Truth and honesty will define your love life this weekWeekly Love Horoscope for April May 3-9, 2026: This is a grounding week in love. Published on: May 03, 2026 7:31 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link Aries Love Energy: Balance and emotional healing
Sunrisers Hyderabad will host Kolkata Knight Riders at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday, 3 May, at 7:30 PM IST in Match 45 of IPL 2026. SRH are in a solid position with 12 points from 9 matches. The Orange Army has won all of their last 5 matches
NEET Exam 2026: 60 minutes morning routine that can decide your rankThe brain is very sensitive right before an exam. From observing cohorts of students, the following structure has been found to work effectively. Published on: May 02, 2026 7:58 PM IST By HT Education Desk Share via Copy link The
Iran has offered a new proposal to end the ongoing conflict. The plan suggests reopening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and lifting the US blockade. Nuclear talks would be postponed for later discussions. However, US President Donald Trump has rejected this offer
Pakistan's latest test of its nuclear-capable Shaheen-III ballistic missile on Tuesday, July 22, went allegedly awry, with the missile falling short of its target and its wreckage landing perilously near a nuclear site in Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab province. The accident, in which wreckage fell close to civilian habitations in Dera Bugti district, Balochistan, has raised high level questions over Pakistan's military competence and sparked safety concerns among locals.
Disaster Averted: Pakistan's Nuclear-Capable Shaheen-III Missile Reportedly Crashes Near Nuclear Facility | VIDEO
Pakistan's nuclear-capable Shaheen-III missile test reportedly went awry on July 22, crashing near a nuclear facility in Dera Ghazi Khan and impacting civilian areas in Balochistan.
Pakistan's latest test of its nuclear-capable Shaheen-III ballistic missile on Tuesday, July 22, went allegedly awry, with the missile falling short of its target and its wreckage landing perilously near a nuclear site in Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab province. The accident, in which wreckage fell close to civilian habitations in Dera Bugti district, Balochistan, has raised high level questions over Pakistan's military competence and sparked safety concerns among locals.
After the failed test, the Pakistani military is said to have imposed a drastic internet blackout in the hit areas, barred media access, and commanded citizens to stay indoors.
Add Zee News as a Preferred Source
On 22nd July, Pakistan carried out a test firing of the Shaheen-III missile from the Rakhshani region of Dera Ghazi Khan. But the missile is said to have gone off track, crashing in the Matt region of Dera Bugti district, Balochistan. The impact point was startlingly close to human habitations, only 500 meters away. Missile wreckage fell in the Grapevine Ravine at the Loop Seharani Levy Station, causing a massive explosion.
Pakistani Punjabi Army carried out a failed test of Shaheen-III ballistic missile in Republic of Balochistan on Tuesday, 22 July 2025. Locals reported that the missile was fired from Balochistan's territory of Dera Ghazi Khan which landed dangerously close to civilian settlement pic.twitter.com/VF4o15pa77 — Baba Banaras™ (@RealBababanaras) July 23, 2025
The explosion was so intense that its noise was said to have been heard 20-50 kilometers away, resonating in sections of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Social media was filled with panic videos of people running in fear. While some alleged that the missile struck the Dera Ghazi Khan nuclear plant, others believed it could be a strike by an enemy drone.
The Pakistani military's initial reaction was to cut off internet services, limit media, and instruct residents to remain indoors. Mazhar Shirani, a representative of the DG Khan Commissioner, tried to put the incident down, implying that it was possibly a sonic boom created by a fighter jet, subject to investigation.
The Shaheen-III is Pakistan's most powerful missile. It is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of 2,750 kilometers, theoretically able to reach key Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Pakistan sees it as an essential component of its defense strategy, especially as a countermeasure against India's military might. Yet, a series of successive test failures is increasingly raising questions over its operational readiness.
Dera Ghazi Khan is also the site of Pakistan's largest nuclear complex, a critical facility for uranium storage and processing. In the early 1970s, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) built a pilot plant here with the capability to process 10,000 pounds of uranium per day. This is the most important part of the nuclear weapons program of Pakistan. If the missile did actually hit this complex, the results could have been disastrous, although authorities insist that no damage was done.
This is not a one-off. Pakistan has a disturbing history of failed missile tests:
These successive failures highlight ongoing technical issues with Pakistan's missile technology.
Groups such as the "Republic of Balochistan" and locals have vigorously protested against the recent test. They claim that:
Balochistan as a Testing Ground: The Pakistani military regularly carries out missile and nuclear tests in Balochistan, putting its people at risk. They cite the 1998 nuclear tests at Chagai, where they say even now there is rampant cancer and skin diseases.
Forced Eviction: Baloch people are regularly forced to vacate their homes prior to tests, as is habitual in places such as Dera Bugti and Kahan, purportedly to enable resource extraction (gas, minerals).
Lack of Safety: Civilians are not notified in advance about missile tests, and their lives are put in grave danger.
Sher Mohammad Bugti, spokesman for the Baloch Republican Party, said Pakistan has used Balochistan as its "weapons laboratory," calling on the United Nations and human rights groups to probe.
Pakistan is one of the nine nuclear-armed nations, with a total of 170 warheads in 2025 and possibly up to 200 by 2026. Pakistan's doctrine of "minimum credible deterrence" suggests an implicit first-use strategy towards neighboring countries like India. The Shaheen series with ranges between 1,250 to 2,750 km, with the Shaheen-III developed to neutralize India's Agni-III, are pivotal to this doctrine. Pakistan's missile and nuclear programs are popularly assumed to be designed with extensive Chinese support. The 1970-established Dera Ghazi Khan plant produces as much as an estimated 360 grams of plutonium per year, which is weapons-grade. It is an essential element of its nuclear program.
India has kept official mum over the incident, but the incident follows increased India-Pakistan tensions in the wake of India's "Operation Sindoor" in May 2025, a retaliatory action against Pakistani airbases over the Pahalgam terror attack. The Dera Ghazi Khan incident has generated internal debate in India, with some interpreting it as an indication of Pakistan military vulnerabilities.
Concerns from the United States are also notable. A U.S. nuclear sniffer aircraft was reportedly observed near Dera Ghazi Khan after the October 2023 blast, fueling speculation of a nuclear mishap. While the U.S. remains officially quiet, it closely monitors Pakistan's nuclear arsenal. Baloch organizations have appealed to the UN and UN Security Council to impose sanctions on Pakistan's missile and nuclear programs.
Pakistani authorities have rejected any terror strike, and the DG Khan Commissioner has said the blast was probably a sonic boom and reported no damage or casualties. But so many questions to be answered: If a sonic boom, then how did missile wreckage reach Dera Bugti? Why did the army impose an internet and media embargo? Was the nuclear plant really not damaged? The Pakistan Interior Ministry remains silent so far.
For India, successive failures of Pakistani missile tests may mean diminished military credibility. Yet, an accident involving a nuclear facility such as Dera Ghazi Khan would be a critical threat that would transcend boundaries. In addition, increasing Baloch anger against Pakistan, possibly catalyzed by such an incident, may destabilize a border region near the India-Pakistan frontier, affecting bilateral relations.
Source: ZeeNews
Related Posts: North Korea fired ballistic missiles into sea South Korea says North Korea has launched ballistic missile into sea UAE destroys 172 ballistic missiles North Korea fires ballistic missile N. Korea Houses Secret Nuclear Capable Missile Base Near China Border How Powerful Is Minuteman-III – The Nuclear Missile United States Tested BrahMos Capable Of Hitting Every Inch Of Pakistan Coming Soon India's Ramjet Artillery Capable Of Blowing Pakistan's Rear Commands To Pieces North Korea conducts engine test for missile capable of targeting US mainland North Korea conducts engine test for missile capable of targeting U
Rohit Jain’s appointment will take effect from May 3 for a period of three years, according to a government notice issued on Friday. The central government has appointed Rohit Jain as a deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Reuters has reported citing a government notice issued on
6 hours ago
It's probably fair to say that most of us have never slapped someone so hard with a wet fish that they fall, fully clothed, into a swimming pool. Until recently, that was also true for Icelandic jazz-pop phenomenon Laufey. Then she released a song called Mad Woman
6 hours ago
Former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has moved to a new residence at 7, Circular Road in Patna. This relocation occurs as discussions about a potential Bihar Cabinet expansion intensify. Kumar previously resided at 1 Anne Marg for two decades
6 hours ago
The new season of HBO's Euphoria, and Apple TV's series Margo's got Money Troubles, both feature lead characters who are adult content creators. But they don't tell the whole story. Sex workers have long been narrative fodder for TV shows, from The Secret Diary of a Call Girl and Harlots to The
6 hours ago
Delhi to get 97 km of new Metro lines, 65 stations under mega ₹48,204 crore planThe DMRC’s Metro expansion is expected to bring localities of Najafgarh, Narela, Mithapur and Khera Kalan on the Metro map. Published on: May 03, 2026 7:46 AM IST By Snehil Sinha Share via Copy link The Delhi
6 hours ago
The Miami Grand Prix has been moved forward by three hours to 18:00 BST (13:00 local time) because of the threat of thunderstorms. And world champion Lando Norris says the Formula 1 drivers will be "thrown in at the deep end" by the expected wet weather on Sunday
6 hours ago
Supreme Court rejects TMC's plea on state govt representative among counting officials after EC's assurancesThe SC said ECI’s circular, which provides for a mix of central and state government employees in the counting process on May 4, was not contrary to law. Updated on: May 03
6 hours ago
Coca-Cola is trouncing Pepsi. Can the underdog turn things around?The maker of the world’s second-favourite fizzy drink is becoming more like its rival Published on: May 02, 2026 6:35 PM IST The Economist Share via Copy link There are few rivalries in business as fierce and long-lasting as that
6 hours ago
India Weather Update: IMD predicted “above normal” rainfall for May 2026, offering relief from daytime heat in most regions. However, heatwaves will intensify in Gujarat and Maharashtra, while warmer nights signal climate change impacts.India Weather Update: IMD predicted “above normal”
6 hours ago
Cherie DeVaux family: Who is Kentucky Derby winner's husband David Ingordo?Golden Tempo won the Kentucky Derby, making Cherie DeVaux first woman to train a winner of the opening leg of the Triple Crown; she is married to David Ingordo. Updated on: May 03
6 hours ago
Three years after ethnic violence erupted in Manipur, little has changed. Daily life remains disrupted, and thousands are displaced. Violence has escalated despite government efforts. The administration faces a significant challenge in rehabilitating those affected
6 hours ago
India's Thomas Cup title defence ended in the semifinals with a bronze after a 0-3 loss to France. Lakshya Sen's absence was as a significant factor. HS Prannoy, Ayush Shetty and Kidambi Srikanth all lost their matches. France advanced to the final, becoming the second European nation to do so
6 hours ago
Alix Earle and Braxton Berrios' encounter fuels speculation amid Tom Brady rumorsDuring a Miami Grand Prix party, Alix Earle was seen conversing with ex-partner Braxton Berrios, reigniting speculation about her connection with Tom Brady. Published on: May 03
6 hours ago
Election Results 2026 Date, Time: The election results for West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry will be declared on 4 May. The final results are expected by Monday evening while the trends would be known by afternoon, as per past experience of counting process that involves
6 hours ago
Jio has six affordable recharge plans priced under ₹200, offering users 30 days of validity, a JioHotstar subscription, and several other benefits. Jio has specifically launched this affordable recharge plan as a cricket data pack. You can enjoy your favorite web series and movies
6 hours ago
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will conduct a nationwide test of the Cell Broadcast Alert System on Saturday, May 2, 2026. During this test, your phone might vibrate or blink with a alert message. Know details here. If your smartphone suddenly starts beeping and
6 hours ago
The AI rush is hitting a bottleneckHardware-makers are failing to invest enough to keep up with demand Published on: May 02, 2026 6:40 PM IST The Economist Share via Copy link A new craze has gripped Silicon Valley of late. Techies looking to prove they are in the vanguard of
6 hours ago
As PPF accounts reach maturity, holders must choose to withdraw the total amount, extend for five years, or continue without extra deposits. Here’s what each option offers. As Public Provident Fund (PPF) accounts complete their 15-year maturity period
6 hours ago
The proposed $1.63 billion buyout of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals has been delayed due to funding challenges, regulatory concerns and complexities within the investor consortium led by Kal Somani. The group, which includes global investors
6 hours ago
Weekly Panchang for May 3-9, 2026: Auspicious & Inauspicious MuhuratsWeekly Panchang for May 3-9, 2026, to determine the auspicious & inauspicious time for performing day-to-day tasks based on the planetary positions. Published on: May 03, 2026 6:30 AM IST By Ishita Kotiya Share via Copy link This
6 hours ago
EC orders repoll at 285 stations in West Bengal's Falta on May 21 over ‘severe electoral offences’The ECI had ordered repolls on Friday in 15 polling stations where allegations of EVM tampering were received during Phase 2 of the West Bengal elections. Updated on: May 03
6 hours ago
Nawazuddin Siddiqui recalls doubting himself and losing confidence at the beginning of his career: ‘Survived on Parle-G’Life looked quite different for Nawazuddin Siddiqui before his breakthrough. He reflects on his struggles in the initial years and how he made ends meet. May 3, 2026
6 hours ago
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (May 2) announced India’s squad for the upcoming 2026 edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. In the 15-member team picked for the 12-team tournament which will be played from June 12 to July 5 in England
6 hours ago
JEE Advanced 2026: The application process for JEE Advanced 2026 commenced on April 23, 2026, and candidates have been allotted time until 11:59 PM on the night of May 2, 2026, to fill out the form. JEE Advanced 2026: Today is a crucial day for the lakhs of students dreaming of becoming engineers
6 hours ago
After a high-stakes battle in the courts this week, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has looked to cool things down with his nemesis and former co-founder of the ChatGPT maker. Altman, who is hosting a party for the launch of the company's latest GPT-5.5 model
6 hours ago
The Election Commission on Saturday ordered repolling in the Falta constituency of West Bengal in the Assembly elections citing “severe electoral offences”. Polling will be held in all 285 polling stations on May 21 and the votes will be counted on May 24
6 hours ago
We're in the middle of one of the Premier League's most dramatic and tightest title races, but did it swing back in leaders Arsenal's favour on Saturday? The Gunners went six points clear of Manchester City with a 3-0 win over Fulham - and have just three league games left this season
6 hours ago
