Pak vs Ind: What To Do in a War Scenario? Health Tips and Survival

The current war between Pakistan and India has imposed gigantic challenges on the region, with tensions rising and military operations bringing widespread uncertainty. As the crisis keeps unfolding, millions of civilians are caught in the middle, with their safety, health, and well-being immediately threatened.

During such a crisis, health is of utmost priority. The war not only causes bodily injuries due to bombing, airstrikes, and crossfire but also aggravates mental health issues such as trauma, anxiety, and PTSD. With essential services such as healthcare, clean water, and food supplies disrupted, having good health strategies has never been more essential.

1. Introduction: Why Health Matters During War

The international community is keeping a watchful eye. World leaders, the United Nations, and the international media are advocating for peace, humanitarian intervention, and ceasefire to save innocent lives. The world unites in hope for de-escalation, yet for those who are on the ground, survival and health maintenance have become priority.

In this blog, we will discuss the essential health advice and survival tips you can employ to keep yourself safe in such uncertain situations. Whether you are in a war zone or just wish to be ready, the information provided here will assist you in keeping yourself physically healthy, handling stress, and preventing yourself from the health hazards of war.

2. Pak vs Ind: The Timeline of Conflict

The Pakistan-India conflict, which has its roots in decades of unsettled border disputes and political competition, has again flared up in severe military confrontation. The latest installment in this long-standing crisis left the two nations perilously close to an all-out war, with catastrophic results for civilians, infrastructure, and regional stability. Below is an exhaustive timeline of how the conflict arose:

Day 1: The Spark — The Phalgam Incident

The tensions resurfaced following a fatal assault in Indian-held Kashmir’s Phalgam region. The government of India instantly accused Pakistan of masterminding a terrorist raid on its army. Indian media hyped it up, citing it as an organized attack by militants reportedly sponsored by Pakistan.

Pakistan vehemently denied any involvement, calling the charges baseless propaganda. Pakistan’s Foreign Office claimed that India has a record of employing such fake flags to divert attention from its own human rights abuses in Kashmir.

Operation Sandoor:

India retaliated by launching “Operation Sandoor”, a comprehensive air campaign. Missiles had been launched across the border, targeting villages and killing several civilians, including children and women. Whole communities had been destroyed, with hospitals congested and rescue efforts under massive strain.

In addition, India also blamed Pakistan for breaching the Sindh Taas (Indus Waters) Treaty—an old water-sharing treaty. Regardless of Pakistan giving a formal diplomatic notice, India continued to resort to provocations, further souring bilateral ties.

Week 1: Escalation and Retaliation

The Pakistani Army threatened to respond decisively. Within a matter of days, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) strongly retaliated and in a decisive turn of events, five Indian fighter aircraft were destroyed along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistan confirmed that the retaliatory strikes were entirely defensive in nature and against Indian military locations, not in civilian areas.

Global Reactions Begin

The incident received immediate global attention:

• France criticized the Indian airstrikes and called for de-escalation. French diplomats called for both nations to avoid further harming civilians.
• China, Pakistan’s close regional ally, responded through official statements and social media, appealing for peace but expressly manifesting sympathy for Pakistan’s defensive position. A (viral video)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OZ5VIZZ_zk message by a Chinese spokesperson appealing for dialogue came from a Chinese spokesperson.
• Turkey, Malaysia, and Iran also complained and did not support India’s aggressive stance.
• The United Nations made an emergency call for a ceasefire at once and access to humanitarian aid workers in conflict areas.

Drone Warfare & Disinformation

As diplomatic pressure increased, India started sending day-to-day spy drones over the LoC into Pakistani airspace. Some were captured and destroyed by Pakistan’s defense systems. Meanwhile, Indian media initiated a synchronized campaign of false news, creating false reports about Pakistani casualties, internal unrest, and disinformation regarding military success.

Pakistani officials soon disproved a majority of these reports and blamed India for waging an information war to shape public opinion and legitimize its actions globally.

 Night Strike: Islamabad Airbase Targeted

In a dramatic night-time operation, India attempted to strike the Islamabad Air Base, an important Pakistani defense installation. But Pakistan’s advanced air defenses managed to thwart the attack, preventing extensive damage and casualties.

The move was seen as an outright disregard for Pakistan’s sovereignty, crossing a dangerous boundary and pushing both nations to the brink of all-out war.

Morning Retaliation: Operation Binyan Massos

Repelled, Pakistan launched “Operation Binyan Massos” the following day. It was a huge strategic attack on several Indian air bases in Punjab and Rajasthan.

• A few Indian military bases were targeted, destroying aircraft and supply lines.
• The operation employed precision attacks, with no civilian areas to maintain ethical warfare practices.
• Another Indian fighter that had entered Pakistani airspace was shot down, and the pilot is currently in custody.
• This was a grave escalation, and world powers called for an immediate intervention to prevent a full-scale war.

What the World is Saying

The United Nations Security Council holds emergency sessions. Humanitarian organizations have cried out regarding:

• Mass displacements
• Child casualties
• Healthcare and education infrastructure destruction

Countries appealing for peace and neutrality:

• United States: Demanded an immediate ceasefire and talks.
• Russia: Tried to facilitate the talks between the two.
• Germany, Canada, Japan: Called for the protection of civilians and demanded international norms be followed.
• Turkey and Malaysia: Supported peace efforts and signed Pakistan’s call for UN intervention.

3. The Impact of War on Health: Major Risks

War affects not just borders and governments but also reaches the very core of human health. Civilians are typically the most vulnerable, with immediate and long-term health consequences that go beyond physical injury. The following are the primary health risks that arise during war:

1. Physical Injuries and Trauma

Airstrikes, bombings, and ground attacks result in thousands of physical disabilities. Hospitals can be overwhelmed or destroyed, and it is hard for victims to get immediate treatment. Wounds, burns, fractures, and amputations are prevalent, and the lack of medical equipment contributes to the challenge of recovery.

2. Mental Health Crisis

The most overlooked impact of war is on mental health. Constant fear, uncertainty, loss of loved ones, and loss of homes lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and sleep disorders. Children and the elderly are especially susceptible to psychological trauma.

3. Spread of Infectious Diseases

With sanitation facilities under threat, clean water unavailability, and closely packed refugee camps, infectious diseases like diarrhea, respiratory infections, cholera, and skin infection become extremely communicable. Combat areas are rich breeding grounds for disease due to poor hygiene practices and weakened immunity.

4. Lack of Medical Access

Hospitals are bombed or closed. Doctors and nurses flee for their lives. This leaves a severe shortage of care, especially for patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. Pregnant women, babies, and the elderly suffer most.

5. Malnutrition and Hunger

Supply chains are disrupted by war, and thus people are no longer able to get food. Malnutrition is induced to stunted growth children, weakness, and mental retardation. In some cases, starvation becomes an instant reality.

6. Environmental Health Hazards

Sources of clean water are destroyed in war, induce chemical exposure, and pollute the air and land. The risk for cancer, respiratory disease, and other chronic diseases is increased.

7. Displacement and Living in Camps

They may be residing in crowded refugee camps or shelters. These environments do not offer privacy, sanitation, clean water, and proper nutrition — all of which are essential for being healthy.

4. Health Survival Tips for War

In a war situation, your first concern should be to protect your health and keep cool. When towns are bombarded and services disrupted, even necessities like water, food, and medicine run short. It is for this reason that preparation and information are vital.

1. Prepare an Emergency Health Kit

Start with preparing a health kit that includes:

• Bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, cotton, and scissors
• Personal medicines (for asthma, diabetes, blood pressure, etc.)
• Hand sanitizers, face masks, and basic hygiene items

Keep this kit in a water-resistant bag and make sure it is easily portable in the event of evacuation.

2. Stay Informed and Alert

Watch for updates from reliable news outlets and government sources only. Do not lend weight to false news or fear created by rumors on social media. Find out where your nearest hospital, police station, and safe shelter are.

3. Practice Good Hygiene

Sanitation systems can fail in war. To remain safe:

• Wash your hands often if there is water available
• Use sanitizers or alcohol wipes if there is no water available
• Don’t share utensils or personal items

4. Protect Your Mental Health

Mental distress in war is normal, but perilous if neglected. Try to:

• Stay connected with family and friends
• Maintain a simple routine — even minor activities can help
• Speak to someone you trust when you feel anxious or frightened
• Reassure children with soothing explanations and diversions such as storytelling

5. Keep Emergency Food and Water

Ensure you have clean water and food stored in a secure location. Prioritize:

• Canned foods
• Dry biscuits or snacks
• Energy/protein bars
• Water purification tablets or bottled water

6. Stay Inside During Attacks

If you hear gunfire, bombing, or sirens:

• Get to a windowless safe room
• Flat on your back, lie on the floor and cover your head
• Keep windows and doors closed to keep smoke and chemicals out

7. Support Vulnerable Family Members

Pay special attention to:

• Children
• Older citizens
• Pregnant women or people with health conditions

Prepare their medication, clothing, and essential documents ahead of time. Store medical documents in a water-resistant bag.

8. Only Evacuate When Advised

When evacuation is unavoidable, move with light and wit. Carry:

• ID documents/ID cards
• Cash or ATM cards
• Medications and minimal health kit
• Water, food, and cellular phone
• Power bank or torch

5. First Actions to Take When War Breaks Out

Staying calm and acting quickly but wisely can keep you alive. From civil defense regulations and worldwide war survival history (e.g., Ukraine 2022), here’s what to do right away:

Stay Calm and Verify the News

Panic leads to panic. Take a deep breath, assemble your family, and verify what is occurring. Only trust:

• Government alerts
• Official emergency apps or SMS
• Verified news sources or social media handle.

Self to a Safer Place

Proceed to:

• A cellar or basement room
• A windowless central room
• Any place away from outside walls and glass

(Fact: More than 60% of civilian war injuries in initial war phases are due to shattered glass and falling objects.)

Take Essential Emergency Supplies

Stock or gather a minimal survival kit with:

• First aid materials + regular medications
• 2–3 water bottles per individual
• Dry/canned food (2–3 days)
• Phone, power bank, flashlight
• ID cards, little cash
• Restrict Communication & Save Battery
• Use texts instead of calls
• Keep phones on low brightness and airplane mode when not in use
• Stay away from social media arguments or fake news

⚠️ During previous wars, mobile networks shut down within hours due to overloading.

Stay Indoors Unless Ordered to Evacuate

Do not venture out unless instructed to do so by authorities. In case of sirens:

• Lie down
• Cover your head
• Keep away from windows and doors

Assist the Vulnerable Around You

If safe, check on:

• Elderly neighbors
• Disabled individuals
• Single mothers or children
• A united community minimizes casualties.

Survive the First 6 Hours

Your priorities in the initial few hours:

• Be safe
• Be informed
• Be calm
• Be connected

Get prepared now while peace prevails — because in war, even 5 minutes of preparedness can prove the difference between safety and peril.

6. People’s Voices: What Civilians and Experts Are Saying

With rising tensions between Pakistan and India, voices from experts and the general public are getting louder. These responses are all about fear, patriotism, concern for peace, and worst-case scenario preparation.

Civilians Respond with Diverse Emotions

From social media to media interviews, the general public in both nations have expressed a range of anxiety, anger, and hope. Here’s what they are saying:

• “We do not want war, we want peace and stability. War is only destruction,” wrote a Pakistani student from Lahore.
• “I’m afraid for my family. Everyone is panicking with the news,” wrote an Indian mother from Amritsar.
• “If there is war, we will support our army, but honestly speaking, we just want to live peacefully,” wrote a young man from Karachi.

Experts Warn of Long-Term Damage

 

Security experts, political analysts, and medical professionals have also spoken out:

• Defense experts have cautioned that even a small-scale war between two nuclear powers can destabilize the entire South Asian region for decades.
• Health professionals are emphasizing that the collapse of health care, water infrastructure, and food would result in a significant humanitarian disaster.
• Economic professionals indicate that both countries might experience inflation, unemployment, and withdrawal of foreign investment if there is war.

A UN regional peace adviser stated:

“The cost of conflict between India and Pakistan is far beyond military — it’s social, economic, and deeply human.”

Global Citizens Express Concern

Globally, diaspora South Asians have used social media platforms to vent concern:

• “I worry about my family in my homeland Punjab,” stated a Canadian of Indian origin on Reddit.
• “May both nations come to see there are no victors in war,” said a Pakistani in Dubai.

Fear, Hope & a Call for Peace

Though the danger of war has moved deep passions, most voices — from street corners to Facebook to global think tanks — are demanding peace, not combat. The message is unanimous:

“War hurts the people most. Diplomacy must triumph over devastation.”

8.Preparing for Worst-Case Scenarios

In times of conflict, preparation is essential. While we hope for peace, being ready for the worst-case scenarios — where resources become scarce and survival becomes the primary goal — is crucial.

Securing Your Home and Essential Supplies

The initial step is to secure your house. Secure doors and windows with wood or metal plates to defend against blasts and shattering glass. If it is possible, identify a safe room like a basement or windowless space where you can seek refuge during bombing. Also, having an evacuation plan and familiarizing yourself with alternate routes of escape is crucial for saving your family if evacuation is required.

Then, securing water and food supplies is essential. Stock up at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water per individual per day, with a target of two to three weeks’ supply. Water purification tablets as a substitute in case fresh water is not available. In food, non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dried fruits, energy bars, and ready-to-eat meals should be stocked. A portable cooking unit or stove is also a good investment in the event electricity or gas lines are interrupted during the conflict.

Being Informed and Preparing for Mental Toughness

Medical supplies, in the medical aspect, ensure you have a well-stocked first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptics, painkillers, and any personal medications. Don’t leave out hygiene kits, including wet wipes, hand sanitizers, soaps, and other items to help keep you clean, particularly in case water becomes scarce. Being informed is also crucial. A battery-powered or solar-powered radio will enable you to listen to emergency broadcasts, and having your phone set to receive government alerts can keep you informed of any emergency measures or evacuations. It’s a good idea to map out escape routes ahead of time to know where to go in case you need to leave your home quickly.

Mental health and family support

Mental and family support is also as important as physical preparations. Maintain communication with your relatives so that everyone is aware of the emergency procedures. Talk about the situation calmly with your family so that resilience will be enhanced, and panic will be minimized. Keep comfort items such as books, toys, or family mementos to provide a sense of normality, especially with children. As far as financial planning is concerned, it is advisable to have some cash reserves in hand because ATMs or banking facilities may not be available. Also, make electronic backup copies of your vital documents like IDs and birth certificates, stored safely in case you would need to evacuate the region.

Ultimately, it’s worth setting up secure zones for shelter. Whether from a relative’s home, community shelter, or local government agency, having access to a know place can be reassuring in crisis. Coordinate in your community as pooled resources provide enhanced survival outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

Conclusion: Remaining Resilient In Crisis

When there’s the threat of conflict on the horizon, it’s human nature to feel helpless, but it’s resilience that takes charge. We hope for peace, but it’s wisest to prepare in order to ensure your own safety and well-being. By taking a proactive stance to protect your home, stockpile essentials, stay aware, and maintain your emotional well-being, you create a sense of self-control in the midst of uncertainty.

While the world holds its breath, let us not forget that people and communities’ ability to bounce back in such circumstances is typically gauged by how well they can bounce back. Flexibility, composure, and taking care of each other are what make all the difference in survival and recovery. No matter how terrible things become, maintaining a focus on practical preparedness, mental acuity, and taking care of each other will carry you through the worst of times.

Remember, in war, safety, survival, and mental health are all intertwined. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, and above all, stay strong. We can survive and rebuild together even in the worst of times.

We would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on this topic after reading the blog. Feel free to share your experience or knowledge below!