Sonic Boom in Patiala: Explosion-Like Bang Sparks Late-Night Panic
Sonic Boom in Patiala: A loud blast-like sound sparked late-night panic across Patiala and Rajpura. DC clarifies it was likely a sonic boom, with no damage or casualties reported.
North Desk Correspondent
Patiala, October 13
A series of deafening, explosion-like sounds triggered widespread panic across Patiala and surrounding areas late Monday night, sending anxious residents rushing out of their homes onto the streets.
The loud bangs, which were loud enough to rattle window panes and doors, were reported from several localities including Sirhind Road, Thapar University campus, and parts of Rajpura. With no visible smoke or fire reported, rumors of an attack or a major industrial mishap quickly began circulating on social media.
Local residents and students in the hostels came out on roads wondering what has happened and in wake of what was circulating on social media.
The Patiala district administration quickly stepped in to dispel rumors, clarifying that the sound was most likely a sonic boom generated by supersonic aircraft operating at high speed.
Sonic Boom in Patiala: Administration appeals for calm
Addressing the public concern, the Patiala deputy commissioner stated that the loud rumble was consistent with shockwaves generated when an aircraft breaches the speed of sound.
Authorities confirmed that police and emergency response teams verified the area, reporting no loss of life, no injuries, and no structural damage anywhere in the district. The administration appealed to citizens not to spread or believe unverified speculation on WhatsApp and social platforms.
What is a sonic boom?
Sonic Boom in Patiala: A sonic boom is an explosive, thunderclap-like sound caused by shockwaves when an aircraft travels faster than Mach 1 (the speed of sound, roughly 1,235 km/h).
Because northern Punjab falls under critical air defense and training corridors—with major air force establishments nearby in Ambala and Adampur—high-speed night sorties occasionally produce shockwaves that travel to the ground as sharp, ground-shaking thuds.
Officials noted that the situation in the royal city remains completely normal, with routine daily activities continuing unaffected.
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