Jammu, April 21
Authorities in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, will conduct a mock air raid and blackout drill on April 23 to assess emergency preparedness, focusing on coordination, safety, and public awareness.
The civil defence exercise will evaluate the effectiveness of local agencies and the public in responding to air raid and blackout scenarios. Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma is supervising the drill and has chaired a meeting to finalise arrangements.
Officials stated that the exercise will involve civil administration, police, paramilitary, health services, fire and emergency services, transport authorities, and telecommunication agencies. These departments are responsible for operational readiness, following standard procedures, and maintaining strong communication protocols during the drill.
“All heads of departments have been instructed to coordinate closely and prepare a comprehensive action plan,” said Deputy Commissioner Sharma. The plan includes communication strategies, inter-departmental coordination, emergency response mechanisms, and public information initiatives to ensure the drill proceeds smoothly and safely.
To prevent public concern, authorities will provide advance information about the exercise through print, electronic media, and local announcements. Hospitals, ambulances, fire services, and control rooms will be on standby. Departments have been directed to identify shelters, safe zones, and vulnerable areas, and to ensure all emergency equipment is ready.
Officials stated that the drill will help identify gaps in the current system and provide recommendations to improve future emergency preparedness. The district administration has instructed departments to avoid high-risk activities and prioritise public safety. Medical teams will be on standby, and all operations will be conducted in a controlled, supervised environment.
The Kishtwar mock drill is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response and ensure resident safety during critical situations. Insights from the exercise will inform future strategies and help address any gaps in preparedness.
