India's Massive Civil Defence Drill Amid Escalating Tensions

India Conducts Largest Civil Defence Drill Since 1971 Amid Rising Tensions

Operation Abhyaas: Nationwide Mock Drill on May 7 to Enhance Emergency Preparedness

In response to escalating tensions following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, India is set to conduct its most extensive civil defence mock drill since 1971. Scheduled for May 7 at 4 PM, “Operation Abhyaas” will span 259 locations across 33 states and Union Territories, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

Objectives of the Drill

The primary aim of this nationwide exercise is to assess and enhance India’s readiness for potential hostile threats. Key components of the drill include:

Air-Raid Siren Tests: Simulating alerts for incoming attacks.
Blackout Simulations: Practicing power shutdowns to avoid detection.
Evacuation Drills: Training civilians to move to safety efficiently.
Bunker and Trench Inspections: Ensuring shelters are operational.
Public Training Sessions: Educating citizens on emergency protocols.

These measures are designed to bolster civilian preparedness and ensure coordinated responses during emergencies.

State-Wise Preparations

Delhi: Authorities will conduct drills at 55 locations, involving 650 schools in evacuation and blackout response training.
Maharashtra: Mock drills will occur at 16 locations across 10 districts, including Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik.
Karnataka: Exercises are planned in Bengaluru, Karwar, and Raichur, focusing on identifying and addressing preparedness gaps.
West Bengal: A seven-day statewide drill will commence, with sirens installed on 90 key buildings in Kolkata.
Uttar Pradesh: A full-scale drill will be conducted across all districts, including a 10-minute blackout in Bareilly from 8 PM to 8:10 PM.
Jammu & Kashmir: Drills will take place in seven civil defence districts, focusing on evacuation and shelter protocols.

Public Advisory

Switch off all lights during the blackout period.
Avoid using mobile phones or light-emitting devices near windows.
Keep essential items like torches, radios, drinking water, dry food, and medicines handy.
Follow official updates via radios and televisions.
Ensure the safety of children and pets during the drill.

These precautions aim to simulate real-life scenarios and prepare the public for potential emergencies.