‘Aim to ensure effective response during difficult situations’
Srinagar, Apr 23: Large-scale civil defence mock drills were conducted across multiple districts of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday to strengthen disaster preparedness, improve inter-agency coordination, and enhance emergency response mechanisms, officials said.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) in Kishtwar, a major mock drill witnessed participation from police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Red Cross, local NGOs, NCC cadets, CRPF and CISF, along with civil administration officials. The exercise focused on testing rescue operations, evacuation procedures, response time and public safety measures.
Officials said the objective was to improve coordination among departments and ensure a quick and effective response during emergencies. They added that such drills play a key role in preparing teams to handle real-life situations and minimise risks to life and property.
GANDERBAL
A similar large-scale civil defence mock drill was conducted in Ganderbal at Government Degree College, organised by the district administration in coordination with police. The exercise simulated emergency scenarios, including blackout situations, to enhance awareness and preparedness among students, staff and the general public.
Participants were guided through evacuation protocols, crisis communication and coordinated response strategies. Officials said the drill provided a practical platform to understand how timely intervention and coordinated action can reduce risks during unforeseen situations. The exercise saw participation from civil administration, SDRF and traffic police, reflecting a unified response framework.
BUDGAM
In Budgam district, another high-intensity mock drill was held at Government Degree College in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan and senior officials from police, SDRF, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire and emergency services, and the health department.
The exercise simulated real-time emergency conditions and included demonstrations of search and rescue operations, evacuation drills and emergency medical response. Students and staff actively participated in the programme.
Officials said the drills aimed to assess the preparedness and efficiency of response agencies and to create awareness among the public, particularly students, about the importance of disaster readiness.
They said coordinated efforts and timely action can significantly reduce risks and save lives during emergencies. The participation of multiple agencies highlighted a well-synchronised disaster response system in the districts.
Authorities across the districts reiterated their commitment to strengthening disaster management systems and said such mock drills would continue to be conducted regularly to ensure preparedness at both institutional and community levels.
They stressed that awareness, preparedness and coordination remain key to effective disaster response and risk mitigation. (KNO)
