The Indian states bordering Pakistan will once again hear the sound of sirens and darkness will prevail for some time. In fact, the central government has taken a new initiative to test the preparedness to deal with possible emergency situations in the border districts. Under this scheme, a mock drill will be organized every month, in which local citizens will be given practical training on how to stay safe in a war-like situation.
First major mock drill on May 31, participation of many agencies
According to sources, this exercise will be conducted simultaneously in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat and Union Territory Chandigarh on May 31 this month. During this mock drill named ‘Operation Shield’, a blackout will be done and warning sirens will be sounded so that people learn to stay alert.
Local police, civil defence, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), health department and other emergency services will take part in this exercise. The aim is to test the coordination between citizens and security agencies in case of any possible attack or crisis.
What will be taught in the mock drill?
During the drill, people will be told how to reach a safe place if there is an air attack, missile strike or drone attack, how to behave in a blackout and how to follow government instructions.
The decision came in the backdrop of past events.
It is worth noting that tension has increased on the Indo-Pak border after the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. In this context, an exercise was also conducted across the country on May 7. After that, the government has now decided to conduct such rehearsals in the border areas on a regular basis.
Why are these mock drills necessary?
Citizens living in areas adjoining the border are often the first targets. In such a situation, it is important to ensure that they are not only mentally prepared, but also know practically what they should do in times of crisis.
For now, keep in mind – on May 31, there will be sirens and blackouts for a few hours in the border districts, so there is no need to panic. This is a pre-planned exercise, which is being done for your safety. Keep an eye on the information of the local administration for information about the mock drills taking place in your area.