Ahead of the nationwide mock drill in 244 districts across several states, the BJP Parliamentary Party office directs all BJP MPs to participate in the drill as ordinary citizens and cooperate with the local administration. Each MP is expected to participate in their respective constituency.
State presidents are also asked to coordinate with senior office-bearers and district presidents to ensure the smooth execution of the drill, sources tell the media.
Taking to X and Facebook, the BJP urges all citizens, party workers (Karyakartas), leaders, and students to come forward and volunteer for the mock drill. The party emphasises that every participant’s involvement will make a significant difference in the success of the exercise.
Amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack that kills 26 Indian tourists, the Government of India announces a nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) instructs states and union territories to conduct the exercise for effective civil defence. The drill includes blackout simulations, air raid sirens, evacuation drills, and public training sessions to prepare for war-like emergencies.
Meanwhile, civil defence holds a meeting with all its employees to discuss ways to protect citizens in case of an air attack in urban areas. Guidelines are also issued on safeguarding the public during emergencies.
Civil defence personnel are briefed on citizen activities during sudden attacks and the necessary precautions to minimise damage.
They are also trained on how to manage crowds during disasters.
While the army strengthens its preparations along the border for a possible war with Pakistan, civil defence volunteers become increasingly active in ensuring the safety of citizens in urban centres.
Measures currently underway, according to sources, include the operationalisation of Air Raid Warning Sirens and the training of civilians, students, and others on civil defence protocols to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack.
Sources add that other measures include crash blackout procedures, early camouflaging of vital installations, and the updating and rehearsal of evacuation plans.
Tensions continue to rise between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, lose their lives. The government vows that the perpetrators of the attack will face severe punishment.
(With inputs from ANI)
