Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], May 6 (ANI) — In line with the Ministry of Home Affairs’ nationwide civil defense preparedness initiative, personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) carried out a mock drill at Srinagar’s Dal Lake on Tuesday, simulating a boat capsize emergency.
Speaking to ANI, SDRF official Arif Hussain stated, “Yesterday, we received an order to conduct a mock drill focused on a boat capsize scenario. We will be demonstrating how to use our equipment. We are here in compliance with that directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs.”
Another SDRF team member added, “We are conducting this mock drill specifically for emergency situations like a boat capsize. This is part of the MHA’s ongoing initiative to ensure readiness.”
Earlier in the day, top-level officials including the Director General of Civil Defence and the Director General of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) attended a meeting at the Ministry of Home Affairs. The session was convened by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan to discuss and coordinate the execution of civil defense mock drills nationwide on May 7.
According to government sources, states across India have been directed to conduct mock drills to strengthen civil defense readiness. These preparedness activities include the activation of air raid warning sirens, training civilians and students in protective measures during hostile threats, and revising evacuation plans with practical rehearsals.
Additional precautions being implemented include crash blackout protocols, early camouflage of critical infrastructure, and community awareness on emergency responses.
These developments come amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 people, most of whom were tourists. In response, the government has vowed strict consequences for those responsible.
In a related security measure, a 30-minute blackout rehearsal was conducted on Sunday in the Ferozepur Cantonment area. The drill followed the orders of the local Cantonment Board and Station Commander and was aimed at enhancing readiness in light of increased regional tensions.
“The blackout ran from 9:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. As per instructions, all lights were turned off. If any vehicle was seen with its lights on, they were promptly switched off. Police remain on high alert, with personnel stationed at all key intersections,” said Gurjant Singh, Station House Officer of Ferozepur Cantt Police Station.
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, the government has granted the armed forces complete operational freedom to determine the mode, timing, and targets for India’s response. Additionally, officials have suspended the Indus Water Treaty as part of a series of measures intended to send a strong diplomatic message to Pakistan over its continued support for cross-border terrorism.
(ANI)
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