NEW DELHI: In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, in which terrorists killed 26 Indian tourists, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated significantly. In response to this and following the directives issued by the central government, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar has instructed all district administrations across the state to conduct mock drills in coordination with the public to ensure preparedness for any potential emergency situations. Furthermore, district officials have been directed to implement comprehensive and strong security arrangements to maintain safety and order.
Notably, This initiative follows directives issued by the Union Home Ministry, which called for mock drills to be carried out across all states and union territories on May 7 to strengthen civil defence mechanisms. In response, civil defence authorities convened a meeting with their personnel to discuss strategies for safeguarding civilians in the event of an aerial attack in urban areas. Detailed guidelines were also disseminated to the workforce on public protection measures.
According to government sources, the Union Home Ministry has urged several states to carry out mock drills on May 7 as part of a nationwide civil defence preparedness drive. The prescribed measures include the activation of Air Raid Warning Sirens, and the training of civilians, including students, in civil defence tactics to protect themselves during hostile attacks.
Sources further indicated that other key measures involve implementing crash blackout protocols, initiating early camouflage of critical infrastructure, and revising and rehearsing evacuation plans to enhance preparedness.
The escalation in tension between India and Pakistan follows the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, most of whom were tourists. The Indian government has declared that those responsible for the attack will be dealt with severely.
DGP Prashant Kumar stated that instructions were received from the Government of India regarding civil defence mock drills. A total of 19 districts have been categorized for this purpose—one district is placed under the A category, two under the C category, and the remaining districts fall under the B category. However, considering the sensitivity of the regions, the government has mandated that these mock drills be conducted in all districts with coordinated efforts from all verticals, including the police, fire services, civil administration, and disaster management department, to ensure preparedness for any emergency.
Civil defence members were briefed on citizen activities during sudden attacks, including essential precautions to minimize casualties and damage. Additionally, they were trained on crowd management techniques to be employed during disaster situations.
While the Indian Army remains on high alert along the border in anticipation of a potential conflict with Pakistan, civil defence volunteers have been mobilized to safeguard city residents from possible attacks.