In response to escalating tensions with neighboring Pakistan, Delhi is taking significant steps to bolster its emergency preparedness. As part of these measures, the city will install approximately 50 air raid sirens on prominent high-rise buildings across the capital. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive warning system that can alert residents in the event of emergencies, including potential air strikes.
The decision to install these sirens follows heightened security concerns and recent military skirmishes between India and Pakistan. These events have prompted the Delhi government and the Union government to prioritize citizen safety and ensure that civilian authorities are prepared for any eventuality.
The sirens will be strategically placed on high-rise buildings to maximize their reach. Delhi PWD Minister Parvesh Verma stated that each siren would have a range of approximately 8 kilometers. This widespread coverage aims to ensure that the warning signals are audible across the city. According to a senior official from the revenue department, locations have been identified and air-raid sirens are being installed across Delhi. Each district will receive 10 air-raid sirens, tailored to cover specific radii—ranging from two to sixteen kilometers—to ensure blanket coverage with no signal blind spots.
The air raid sirens will be centrally operated from a dedicated command center and managed by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). In the event of an emergency, the sirens will sound for five minutes, providing residents with a clear signal to seek shelter. Authorities recommend that individuals take cover under tables or in basements, or follow other safety protocols established by relevant agencies.
To ensure the system's effectiveness, the Delhi government, in coordination with the Civil Defence Directorate, conducted a test run of an air raid siren at the Public Works Department (PWD) headquarters at ITO. The test, which lasted for 15–20 minutes, was intended to assess the siren's functionality and inform the public about the new system. G Sudhakar, District Magistrate (DM) of Central Delhi, advised the general public to stay calm and not to panic during the exercise.
In addition to the installation of air raid sirens, the Delhi government is implementing other measures to enhance emergency preparedness. These include training 1,800 "Aapda Mitras" (friends for disaster management) through an agency suggested by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The 11 district administrations in Delhi will conduct trials at different timings in the evening and check the response from the departments concerned. Civil defence volunteers are being trained and deployed in different areas to assist with emergency response efforts. Mock drills and awareness campaigns are also being conducted to educate the public on how to respond to emergency situations like air raids. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) is actively reviewing and strengthening its preparedness measures to effectively respond to any future natural disasters.
The Delhi government has also heightened security measures across the city. Additional police personnel have been deployed at major landmarks and sensitive locations. Bomb disposal squads and canine units are conducting security checks in busy marketplaces and public gathering spots. Police are also tightening vigils at places with high traffic, such as markets, railway stations, malls, parks and Metro stations. Leaves for all Delhi government employees have been canceled to ensure adequate staffing during the emergency.
These comprehensive measures reflect the Delhi government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens in the face of rising tensions and potential threats. By investing in early warning systems, training personnel, and enhancing security protocols, Delhi aims to be well-prepared to respond effectively to any emergency situation.
