Haryana Conducts Comprehensive Mock Drills Across All 22 Districts to Enhance Civil Defence Preparedness

Haryana recently conducted a civil defence mock drill named Operation Abhyaas. This exercise was part of a nationwide initiative to simulate various hostile scenarios, including air raids and fire emergencies. The drill aimed to enhance public awareness and train citizens in emergency protocols. A 10-minute blackout was enacted from 7.50 pm to 8 pm, requiring all household lights to be switched off.

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs had instructed all states to conduct these drills due to emerging threats following the Pahalgam terror attack. The exercise was coordinated with police, fire services, health departments, civic authorities, and disaster management teams. It took place in several locations, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Panchkula, Ambala, and Rohtak.

Emergency Preparedness and Public Awareness

In Gurugram, drills were held at Ambience Mall, a government school in Sector 47, Salwan School in Sector 15, Hero MotoCorp premises, and Garhi Bazidpur. Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar stated that the exercise was executed smoothly. Gurugram Police Commissioner Vikas Kumar Arora and DCP Headquarters Arpit Jain participated in the drill.

Volunteers acted as mock injured individuals transported on stretchers to ambulances. Firefighting demonstrations and evacuation procedures were also part of the drill. Participants received guidance on precautions before a blackout, such as keeping mobile phones charged and having essential supplies ready.

Guidelines for Blackout Scenarios

The government advised people to prepare flashlights, solar or battery-powered torches, radios, and glow sticks. They were also encouraged to keep valid IDs and assemble a family emergency kit with water, dry food, and basic medicines. Identifying a safe inner room or basement as a shelter was recommended.

Participants were urged to train family members in emergency movements like switching off lights quickly and gathering in secure areas within 1-2 minutes. The exercise began with air raid warning sirens at 4 pm, followed by simulations at key locations such as mini secretariats and shopping malls.

Statewide Implementation and Monitoring

The final air raid alert at 7.50 pm initiated a complete blackout for 10 minutes. Motorists complied by parking their vehicles and turning off headlights. Medical establishments were excluded but voluntarily participated by covering windows with thick curtains.

Additional Chief Secretary Home Department Sumita Misra stated that the drill was initially mandated for 11 districts but was expanded to all 22 districts for better preparedness. Misra monitored the drill from a control room in Panchkula.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini directed that the drill be conducted annually on May 7 to ensure preparation, precaution, and no panic among citizens.

With inputs from PTI