A well-coordinated security response by CISF personnel at the Uri hydroelectric power plant prevented civilian casualties during Pakistan’s attempted strikes soon after India launched Operation Sindoor. The plant, situated close to the Line of Control and considered one of India’s most sensitive energy assets, came under heavy shelling and drone attacks in the early hours following the operation.
According to officials, high alert instructions were issued immediately after Indian forces targeted terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Lights were switched off across the complex, personnel moved to designated positions, and evacuation procedures were activated with precision. The response unfolded exactly as rehearsed in drills conducted a day earlier, enabling teams to move around 250 civilians including families of NTPC employees and CISF staff to fortified bunkers without injury.
The sudden intensity of shelling posed challenges, especially as many families were asleep when the evacuation began. However, security teams followed pre-planned routes and ensured that no one came under direct fire. Only a few unoccupied residential quarters suffered damage, highlighting the effectiveness of the controlled movement and coordination on the ground.
As the situation escalated over subsequent nights, Pakistan deployed drones toward residential areas and the Uri-I and Uri-II hydropower projects. CISF teams successfully neutralised several of these drones near the main gate of the Uri-II project, while larger unmanned aircraft spotted at higher altitude were brought down by other security agencies. No critical infrastructure suffered damage, and operations at the plant remained protected despite continuous threats.
The CISF later confirmed that units deployed at the site worked tirelessly to reinforce bunkers, maintain communications and secure all vital areas throughout the period of cross-border escalation. Nineteen personnel were awarded the Director General’s Commendation Disc in New Delhi for their exceptional bravery, discipline and commitment to safeguarding one of the nation’s key power installations.
