In response to rising regional tensions and a nationwide directive, around 200 civil defence volunteers participated in a large-scale emergency preparedness drill in Lucknow, focusing on responding to missile and air attacks. The exercise, held on May 7, was part of a coordinated effort by the Union Home Ministry to strengthen civil defence readiness across multiple states.
Amarnath Mishra, Chief Warden of Civil Defence in Lucknow, stated that the drill trained volunteers in evacuation procedures, response to air raid sirens, and protective measures aimed at reducing panic and saving lives during hostile attacks. “The focus was on practical techniques to protect civilians and educate them about how to safeguard themselves,” Mishra added.
The drill comes in the wake of the Home Ministry’s directive to states, urging them to operationalise air raid sirens, rehearse blackout measures, and update evacuation and camouflage plans for critical infrastructure. These steps are seen as crucial to ensuring public preparedness amid the escalating Indo-Pak tensions.
