In the wake of heightened tensions and just weeks after Operation Sindoor, a civil defence mock drill is scheduled to take place tomorrow, May 29, in the states bordering Pakistan: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. This exercise aims to evaluate and improve the preparedness of civil defence mechanisms in these regions, particularly in districts near the border.
Operation Sindoor, executed in early May 2025, involved missile strikes by India targeting what it stated were terrorist infrastructure facilities within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. This operation was launched in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India, on April 22, 2025, where 26 tourists were killed. India attributed the Pahalgam attack to Pakistan-backed armed groups, an accusation Pakistan denied. Operation Sindoor and the subsequent events have led to increased tension between the two nations.
The mock drill will encompass various aspects of civil defence preparedness. Residents can anticipate the activation of air raid warning sirens, implementation of blackout measures, and the execution of evacuation plans. The exercises will simulate scenarios that could arise during a hostile attack, providing valuable training to citizens on how to protect themselves. Key components of the drill include:
The mock drill is not limited to government agencies and uniformed personnel. The initiative seeks to involve a broad spectrum of society, including students, hospital staff, transportation workers, and employees from both government and private sectors. This widespread participation underscores the importance of community involvement in civil defence.
While officials haven't explicitly linked the drill to recent events, it is understood that the exercise is a proactive measure. The Home Ministry has emphasized the need for readiness in the face of "new and complex threats." The drill aims to assess and enhance civil defence readiness across states and union territories and also to identify gaps in capabilities and areas needing improvement.
Residents in the designated border districts are advised not to panic during the mock drill. Instead, they should actively participate and follow the instructions provided by civil defence authorities. This includes familiarizing themselves with emergency kits, which should contain essential items such as torches, bottled water, and first-aid supplies. During the exercise, individuals are expected to seek immediate shelter and avoid using phones to keep communication lines open for emergency services.
The civil defence mock drill in the border states serves as a crucial exercise in ensuring the safety and security of citizens. By actively participating, residents can enhance their preparedness and contribute to a more resilient community in the face of potential threats.
