On Thursday evening, a startling celestial event over North Bengal sent residents into a frenzy of speculation and prompted official inquiries. People across several towns reported seeing a mysterious bright object streaking across the sky, accompanied by physical vibrations that rattled windows.
Widespread Sightings and Physical Impact
The incident occurred around 6:40 PM on Thursday. Witnesses in Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Maynaguri, and Dhupguri observed a brilliant streak of light moving at high speed in a south-easterly direction. The visual spectacle was not the only phenomenon; in Jalpaiguri, residents experienced strong vibrations as the light flashed overhead. The force was significant enough to cause window panes to rattle for several seconds, adding a tangible, unsettling dimension to the sighting.
Missile Test Speculation Gains Traction
The unusual event immediately triggered widespread speculation among locals and on social media. The most prominent theory suggested a possible missile test. Many attributed the felt vibrations to a supersonic boom—a thunder-like sound associated with objects traveling faster than the speed of sound. This speculation found a credible anchor when it was linked to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by India for a designated zone in the Bay of Bengal off the Visakhapatnam coast.
Further fueling the theory, some suggested the launch may have originated from somewhere near the strategically sensitive Chicken's Neck region. Available information indicated the notified test corridor for the exercise was estimated to stretch an impressive 3,240 kilometers, pointing towards a long-range strategic test.
Official Response and Ongoing Investigation
Local authorities swiftly moved to assess the situation. Jalpaiguri SP Y Raghuvamshi addressed the reports, stating that police personnel had been mobilized. "We have also informed the public to help identify the location if any debris or evidence is found," he said. The police official clarified that, as of now, there is no specific input or confirmation regarding the nature of the event. He assured that the public would be updated as soon as any confirmed information becomes available.
The combination of a visual anomaly, physical tremors, and the context of a pre-issued NOTAM has created a compelling mystery. While authorities continue their investigation, the event has undoubtedly captured the public's imagination, highlighting the region's geopolitical significance.
