Sirens trigger swift, coordinated mock drills in Karnal, Kaithal districts

As tensions remain high in the wake of recent cross-border developments, civil administrations in Karnal and Kaithal districts conducted large-scale mock drills on Wednesday to assess emergency preparedness during any disaster. Sirens were sounded at exactly 4pm, triggering swift, coordinated drills across strategic public locations, under the watchful eyes of the district authorities.

In Karnal, five major locations—Mini-Secretariat, Old Bus Stand, UHBVN Building, Government College and Public Health Office near the old vegetable market—served as testing grounds. Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh and Superintendent of Police Ganga Ram Punia led the exercise, monitoring each site to ensure readiness. Simulated rescues involved fire brigades, SDRF units, police and trained volunteers. From multi-storey evacuations to emergency hospital transfers, the drill aimed at mimicing real-life disaster response dynamics. The response time of emergency vehicles, including fire brigade, ambulance and rescue teams was from 8-10 minutes. Rescue teams evacuated the mock victims.

DC Singh emphasized, “This is not just a test. It is a wake-up call. We want every citizen to know what to do when sirens are sounded. Do not panic, stay alert.” A blackout drill was also urged between 7:50 and 8pm on Wednesday, with the residents advised to switch off all lights and refrain from using electronic devices near windows. Meanwhile, in Kaithal, under the leadership of DC Preeti, similar exercises were carried out at four locations, including the Ambala Road slums, Solumajra Silo, Pundri MC building, and Kangthali Power Plant. The scenes were both dramatic and disciplined. The rescue teams evacuated victims, fires were symbolically doused and people guided to safety under real-time protocols.

DC Preeti stated, “Preparedness is our best defence. The drills help us uncover gaps, test communication systems and ensure that our citizens are not caught off-guard.” She added a stern warning against those spreading rumours, urging the public to rely only on official government communication.

Both districts have now activated 24x7 control rooms to handle any emergency reports. In Kaithal, the control room has been set up in Room No. 324 of the Mini-Secretariat, reachable via toll-free number 18001801332