New Delhi [India]: Amid escalating tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people—mostly tourists—the Union Home Ministry has instructed multiple states to conduct civil defence mock drills on May 7, government sources confirmed.
These drills are part of heightened national preparedness efforts and will include:
- Operationalization of air raid warning sirens
- Training of civilians and students on safety procedures during hostile attacks
- Rehearsals for blackouts, camouflaging of critical infrastructure, and updated evacuation plans
The drills aim to strengthen civil defence capabilities in the face of potential threats.
“Measures include early camouflaging of vital installations, crash blackout drills, and full-scale rehearsals of evacuation plans,” a senior official stated.
The advisory follows a blackout rehearsal conducted in Ferozepur Cantonment on Sunday night. From 9:00 to 9:30 PM, all lights were switched off under strict supervision.
“If any vehicle had its lights on, they were turned off immediately. Police have been deployed at key intersections and are on high alert,” said Gurjant Singh, SHO, Ferozepur Cantt Police Station.
Following the Pahalgam terror incident, the Indian government has granted full operational freedom to the armed forces regarding the mode, timing, and target of any response. Additionally, the Indus Water Treaty has been put in abeyance as a symbolic and strategic measure against Pakistan.
In response to the attack:
- The Cabinet Committee on Security met to discuss cross-border linkages.
- An all-party meeting was convened where Opposition parties pledged full support for a robust government response.
- Trade ties with Pakistan were immediately severed, with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry banning all imports and transit of goods from Pakistan.
The terror strike is seen as a reaction to India’s successful elections in Jammu and Kashmir and its growing economic progress. The government has vowed to ensure that the perpetrators will face severe consequences.