As part of the simulation, an air raid warning was triggered around 8 pm with support from the Air Force. This was followed by the sounding of sirens and implementation of blackout protocols across selected areas.
The Directorate of Civil Defence under the Delhi government on Thursday carried out a large-scale Civil Defence Mock Exercise across all 13 districts of the national capital to assess preparedness in the event of a hostile attack. The exercise, held on April 2, was conducted at multiple locations, including hospitals, schools, residential areas, government offices and public spaces.
Officials said the drill followed detailed instructions issued to District Magistrates and involved a full simulation of emergency conditions. This included air raid warnings, blackout measures, evacuation procedures, search and rescue operations, fire response and first aid systems.
Advertisement
Air raid sirens, blackout measures activated
Advertisement
As part of the simulation, an air raid warning was triggered around 8 pm with support from the Air Force. This was followed by the sounding of sirens and implementation of blackout protocols across selected areas. Emergency control rooms and coordination centres remained active throughout the exercise to monitor and manage the response.
Key systems such as the Regional Civil Defence Control Centre (RCDCC)/ Civil Defence Control Rooms of civil defence, Emergency Operations Centre of revenue department/ DDMA and coordination centres of other Emergency Support Functionaries (ESFs) functioned in coordination during the drill.
Multiple agencies take part in coordinated response
The exercise saw participation from several agencies, including Civil Defence Volunteers, Delhi Police, Delhi Fire Services, District Administration (DDMA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Health Department, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Home Guards and other stakeholders.
Search and rescue operations, evacuation of injured persons and setting up of temporary medical aid centres were demonstrated at different sites. Thousands of volunteers and emergency responders were involved in the drill.
Focus on coordination, response time and public awareness
Officials said the exercise aimed to test communication systems, evaluate blackout procedures implementation, and assess coordination between agencies. It also focused on improving evacuation readiness and casualty management while spreading awareness among citizens about safety protocols during emergencies.
According to initial observations, coordination among agencies remained strong, emergency systems were activated promptly, and volunteers were mobilised quickly. Public participation in the exercise was also reported to be encouraging.
Authorities stress continued preparedness
The Civil Defence Directorate said the drill helped review operational capabilities and identify areas for further strengthening. It reaffirmed its commitment to improving preparedness and ensuring public safety through regular training and coordinated response mechanisms.
Residents have been advised to stay alert to official advisories, cooperate during such exercises and follow safety instructions, including blackout measures, during emergencies.
Advertisement
