After the terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Home Ministry has issued a directive to organize a comprehensive civil protection (civil defense) mock drill across the country on 7 May. The purpose of this exercise is to ensure the safety of citizens in war or emergency, such as air strikes, terrorist attacks or natural disasters, and evaluate the preparations for the administration. This mock drill to be held in 244 identified districts of the country is the first such major civil security practice after the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
As per the instructions of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the mock drill will include a testing of sirens, blackout protocols, camouflage of important installations, and rehearsals of withdrawal plans. The sirens will be heard up to 2-5 kilometers with a magnitude of 120–140 decibels, which will be installed at administrative offices, police headquarters, and crowded places. Citizens, especially students, will be trained on how to take shelter in safe places such as bunkers or strong buildings in emergency.
Special vigilance is being taken in 19 places in Uttar Pradesh, Connaught Place in Delhi, and border states like Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar said that the districts are divided into three categories, in which Bulandshahr (Narora) is in A-Shirani. The deployment of police and paramilitary forces has been increased in Delhi, and the Resident Welfare Association is being coordinated.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has expected active participation from students of local administration, civil defense volunteers, home guards, NCC, NSS, and school-colleges. The citizens have been appealed not to panic by listening to the siren, but followed the administration’s instructions, avoid rumors, and keep an eye on the government updates. This mock drill will not only strengthen security preparations, but will also increase awareness and community solidarity among citizens.
