Patna: The state government is set to carry out a large-scale mock drill involving simulated air raids and blackouts in six districts during the third week of May, following instructions from the federal home ministry.
The exercise will be conducted in the state capital, Patna, along with Begusarai, Purnia, Katihar, Araria and Kishanganj. Officials said the drills are intended to measure how effectively local authorities, security agencies and residents would respond during an emergency.
Civil defence authorities to oversee operation
Responsibility for organising the exercise has been given to the state civil defence directorate. Preparations were reviewed on Thursday during a meeting at the disaster management department headquarters attended by district magistrates and the police superintendents from the selected districts.
The meeting was chaired via video conference by the disaster management secretary, Dr Chandrashekhar Singh.
Sirens to be sounded across selected districts
Officials were told that civil defence rules require such exercises to be held at least twice a year. At a designated date and time, sirens will be activated simultaneously across all six districts to test systems designed to warn the public of potential threats.
District administrations have been instructed to ensure sirens are in working order ahead of the drill.
Blackout exercise to involve power shutdowns
Authorities said the blackout phase of the operation would require close coordination with the electricity department, which will temporarily suspend power supply in designated areas.
Where necessary, public address systems at road junctions, police stations and fire service vehicles may also be used to relay alerts.
Hospitals asked to prepare safety measures
Hospitals have been directed to make special arrangements during the exercise. Windows may be covered with curtains or privacy screens in line with emergency protection procedures.
Officials also ordered a broad public awareness campaign in advance of the drill to prevent panic and explain the purpose of the exercise.
Begusarai praised for previous performance
Dr Paresh Saxena, director general of civil defence, told officials that Begusarai had performed strongly during previous drills and said all participating districts should aim for a similar level of preparedness.
