In a significant nationwide civil defence exercise, Delhi is set to conduct a large-scale mock drill today, May 7, 2025, as part of "Operation Abhyaas." This drill, which will begin at 4 PM, aims to enhance emergency preparedness in response to rising security concerns following the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. The mock drill will involve the activation of air raid sirens, blackout procedures, and simulated emergency scenarios across the capital.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has mandated that various states and Union Territories participate in this extensive exercise, which will take place in 244 districts throughout India. The drill includes major cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, reflecting the government's commitment to safeguard citizens and infrastructure amid heightened tensions with Pakistan.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has expressed confidence in the drill's preparations, stating that Delhi is "fully prepared" and that the exercise will adhere to Central guidelines. "The objective is to mimic a layered crisis and evaluate our coordinated response, demonstrating our serious preparedness," an official involved in the planning noted.
The drill will simulate various critical scenarios, including air raids, urban fires, casualty evacuations, and the establishment of temporary hospitals. Coordinated efforts will occur at over 55 locations throughout the city, with five sites selected in each of the 11 districts. Some key locations include Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Khan Market, and Connaught Place.
As part of the drill, students and teachers across Delhi will participate in safety drills aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness. Schools have been instructed to practice orderly evacuations, take shelter under desks, and switch off electrical appliances when the siren sounds. Reports and photographs of these drills are to be submitted to district education offices by the end of the day.
In addition to Delhi, surrounding areas like Gurgaon, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and Noida will also conduct their respective drills. Gurgaon has set up control rooms at the Mini Secretariat and a staging area for relief and rescue operations at Tau Devi Lal Stadium. Meanwhile, in Faridabad, the Deputy Commissioner has reviewed plans to ensure civil safety and emergency management during the exercise.
The drill will run from 4 PM to 7 PM, culminating in a temporary blackout across the city at 7 PM. However, officials have yet to confirm whether this blackout will affect only critical installations or extend throughout the entire city. In Ghaziabad, drills were conducted earlier at local schools, while Noida will have a different drill due to the absence of a civil defence unit.
In Mumbai, the drill will be held in 60 areas, with sirens sounding at 4 PM, followed by a 5-minute power blackout. Similar drills are scheduled across various districts in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Telangana, where authorities have emphasized the importance of remaining alert and following official instructions during the exercises.
The authorities have urged the public to stay calm, keep basic supplies ready, avoid spreading rumors, and adhere to safety protocols during the drills. Citizens are reminded that while these exercises are simulations, they are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of emergency response systems and ensuring public safety in the event of a real crisis.
As part of the nationwide effort, the mock drills will also test the operational readiness of air-raid warning signs, crash blackout measures, and evacuation plans. The drills come in response to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, which highlighted the need for enhanced civil defence measures across the country.
In conclusion, today's mock drill is a vital step in preparing India for potential threats and ensuring that both authorities and citizens are ready to respond effectively in times of crisis. The exercise not only underscores the importance of civil defence but also aims to foster a culture of preparedness and resilience among the populace.
