Delhi and Lucknow conduct emergency drills ahead of nationwide civil defence mock drill exercise on May 7
In Lucknow, air raid sirens were tested at Police Lines. Civil defence volunteers practised emergency response drills including carrying injured persons, extinguishing fires, and following alert protocols.
A police official involved in the Lucknow preparations said, “Nationwide mock drills will be held tomorrow. Civil Defence, Police and local administration are preparing for it today.”
First such drill since 1971 war
This is the first coordinated nationwide civil defence exercise since the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The Ministry of External Affairs has asked all 33 states and union territories to conduct the drills across 259 locations.
The drills will simulate air raids, evacuation efforts, and shelter-in-place procedures. Civil defence forces, including National and State Disaster Response teams, will lead the efforts. Civilians will practise seeking cover in available structures such as subways and basements.Each unit involved has been given specific codes and timelines to follow during the operations. Sirens will signal different stages: one for taking cover, another for rescue operations.
Jammu and Kashmir takes lead in preparations
In Jammu and Kashmir, mock drills are already under way. Authorities are training civilians, particularly students, on how to respond to aerial bombings and air raid sirens.
A local teacher said, “We inform the students how to save themselves in any adverse situation. We train them on how to lead themselves to a protected area.”
A mock rescue drill on the Jhelum River demonstrated how fast teams could respond to drowning incidents.
Volunteers and public awareness
In Lucknow, volunteers carried out detailed rehearsals. Some used blankets to smother flames. Others carried injured people on their backs to safety.
The drills also included guidance on what to keep ready during emergencies: torches, water, food, cash, and first aid kits. People have been advised to prepare for blackouts and communication failures.
Tensions rise after Pahalgam attack
The renewed focus on civil defence follows the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead, mostly tourists. Since then, there have been reports of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said those responsible “will be brought to justice.” Pakistani officials, meanwhile, have warned that any move by India would be “met with a firm response.”
Capital tightens security
In Delhi, the police have increased both day and night patrols. Key areas like India Gate, Janpath, and Gole Market are under surveillance.
Authorities have been checking vehicles, especially rentals or those without registration. Security personnel have been asked to stay alert to any unusual activity.
Nationwide mock drills: What to expect on May 7
The drill on Tuesday will involve real-time coordination among police, fire services, hospitals, and volunteers. In cities without dedicated bunkers, metro stations and basements will serve as emergency shelters.
Participants will follow alerts, take cover during air raid sirens, and simulate post-attack rescue operations. The goal is to prepare civilians to act swiftly if faced with hostile scenarios.
The nationwide effort aims to enhance awareness, strengthen public safety responses, and signal readiness amid escalating regional tensions.
(With inputs from TOI)
