If there is a war between India and Pakistan, then nuclear bombs can fall on these 10 cities| READ

The latest Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir has initiated a huge escalation in India-Pakistan relations, with both countries indulging in a war of words and threats. Pakistan's threat of the nuclear bomb has caused alarm about the possible aftermath of a nuclear attack, and India has threatened strong retaliation in case of an attack.

Possible Targets in India

Experts are of the view that Pakistan might target key Indian cities such as:

• Mumbai: Economic capital and financial hub
• Delhi: Capital and seat of government
• Bengaluru: Technological and industrial center

These cities are vital to India's economy, military, and technology sectors and would serve as prime targets if a war were to break out.

Possible Targets in Pakistan

As a retaliation, India may target prominent cities in Pakistan such as:

• Lahore: Economic and cultural center
• Karachi: Economic hub and largest city
•  Islamabad: Capital and seat of government
• Faisalabad: Textile and industrial center
• Rawalpindi: Military base and strategic site
• Hyderabad: Economic and cultural hub
• Gujranwala: Industrial and commercial center
• Multan: Cultural and historical city
• Peshawar: Strategic site near the Afghan border
• Quetta: Central city in Balochistan province

Nuclear Arsenals and Consequences

India and Pakistan both have large nuclear stockpiles, with 172 in India and 170 in Pakistan, as estimated by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. A nuclear war between the two countries would be catastrophic with the following effects:

• Radiation and Health Effects: Radiation exposure would cause long-term health consequences and damage to the environment
•  Famine and Disease: Interference with food supplies and healthcare facilities would worsen the humanitarian crisis.
•  Social Unrest: The devastating consequences of a nuclear war would result in social unrest, displacement, and economic breakdown.

Long-Term Consequences of Nuclear Attack

The effects of a nuclear attack would be felt for generations, as witnessed in the cases of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The effects of radiation would result in diseases and disabilities for generations, and hence a long-term humanitarian disaster.

Preventing War: The Best Course of Action

With the catastrophic effects of a nuclear war, it would be the greatest triumph for both countries to eschew hostilities. Communication and diplomacy would be the optimum and most viable solution to settle issues and avoid a disastrous war.

International Community's Response

The United Nations has urged restraint and de-escalation, as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asked to steer clear of direct conflict and ensure accountability. The global community is observing keenly, worried about the implications of a nuclear war.

Both countries must show restraint

The India-Pakistan conflict has also come to a crucial juncture, with nuclear threats and possible targets proving detrimental to imagining the disastrous effects of a war. Both countries must show restraint and make efforts towards de-escalation to prevent a holocaust-like war. Diplomacy, dialogue, and an understanding approach are the only ways to settle disputes and prevent a humanitarian disaster.