Sirens to ring out nationwide on May 7-Punjab gears up for major emergency drill
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, May 6, 2025: In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued urgent directives to multiple states, including Punjab, to initiate civil defense mock drills starting May 7, 2025.
Sirens will be sounded across the country as part of these preparedness exercises.
The drills are aimed at training citizens, students, and officials in emergency response protocols related to airstrikes, fires, active shooting scenarios, and other emergencies.
Center Issues Strict Orders
The Home Ministry held a high-level video conference with Chief Secretaries and Civil Defense officials from all states. From Punjab, Chief Secretary K.P. Sinha, DG Home Guard and Civil Defence Sanjeev Kalra, and other senior officials participated in the meeting.
The Center emphasized the importance of updating emergency systems and ensuring public awareness in light of the growing national security threats.
According to sources speaking to Babushahi, the Punjab government has ramped up civil defense operations. Mock drills will be conducted in nearly all districts, beginning May 7 and continuing over the following days.
Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema confirmed that drills are scheduled in 20 districts of Punjab, where sirens will be activated and people will be trained on how to respond in emergencies.
244 Districts Nationwide to Participate
The Home Ministry has directed that mock drills be carried out in 244 districts across the country. A nationwide alert system, including air raid warning sirens and blackout protocols, will be tested. All departments have been instructed to remain on high alert and ready to respond to any escalation.
Earlier today, the Union Home Secretary convened a major meeting at 10:45 a.m. to finalize the strategy and logistics of this massive preparedness exercise.
Why these measures?
The government’s swift action comes amid heightened security concerns following the Pahalgam terror incident.
These drills aim to bolster civil preparedness, public safety, and inter-agency coordination, ensuring that citizens and emergency services alike are ready for any situation that may arise.