The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a directive to all states and Union Territories to conduct nationwide civil defence mock drills on May 7, aiming to assess emergency preparedness following the recent terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region.
The initiative, last conducted in 1971 during the Indo-Pak war, comes in the wake of the deadly April 22 assault in Pahalgam—often referred to as the “mini Switzerland” of India—that left 26 civilians dead. The attack has been attributed to Pakistan-supported terrorist outfits, exacerbating already strained relations between the two nations.
Key Measures Under the Mock Drill
The MHA has laid out specific protocols to be followed during the exercise:
- Activation of Air Raid Warning Sirens: Sirens will be used to simulate emergency alerts, testing response times and preparedness.
- Civilian and Student Training: Citizens, particularly students, will be educated on how to respond during emergencies, including hostile attacks.
- Implementation of Blackout Procedures: Temporary power shutdowns, or “crash blackouts,” will be enacted to simulate conditions during aerial threats.
- Camouflage of Vital Installations: Critical infrastructure and facilities will be camouflaged to assess readiness against potential air raids.
- Evacuation Planning and Rehearsal: Authorities will review and practice evacuation strategies to ensure smooth execution in real-time emergencies.
Early Implementation in Ferozepur
In a precursor to the nationwide drill, a 30-minute blackout rehearsal was conducted in Ferozepur Cantonment on May 4, from 9:00 to 9:30 pm. The exercise was overseen by the local Cantonment Board and Station Commander, with strict adherence to blackout protocols.
“All lights were switched off as per senior officers’ orders. Any vehicles found with lights on were immediately asked to switch them off,” said Gurjant Singh, Station House Officer (SHO) of Ferozepur Cantt Police Station. He added that police personnel were stationed at all major intersections to ensure security and compliance.
Pahalgam Attack Fallout
The Pahalgam incident has triggered a swift response from New Delhi, including the withdrawal of diplomats, closure of specific airspaces and ports, and a suspension of the long-standing Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.
In retaliation, Pakistan has reportedly breached ceasefire agreements along the Line of Control (LoC), with small arms fire reported for ten consecutive nights, further intensifying bilateral tensions.
As the drills unfold across the country on May 7, authorities aim to not only test response mechanisms but also reassure the public of their safety and the government’s proactive stance against external threats.
