BSNL to face notice as DC deems communication mock drill lacking

A communication mock drill was organised by the District Disaster Management Authority in Shimla on Wednesday to test the readiness of disaster response teams. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anupam Kashyap, monitoring the drill from the control room, attempted to contact all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) of the district using satellite phones.

However, the SDMs of Kupvi, Kotkhai and Shimla Rural could not be reached due to signal issues. Kashyap expressed dissatisfaction with the results of the satellite phone drill, stating that it was not satisfactory and that a notice would be sent to BSNL management regarding the signal problems.

“The most important thing in a disaster is communication. Communication plays an important role,” Kashyap said, stressing that further steps would be taken to address the issue. He also announced that all SDMs and relevant staff would undergo specialised training on the operation of satellite phones at a district-level Revenue Department meeting scheduled for February 22. “In future, regular mock drills will be conducted regarding the operation of satellite phones so that the field staff does not have to face any kind of problem during a disaster,” he added.

Additionally, a mock drill was held at Jakhu Ropeway to prepare for emergency rescues. During the exercise, individuals trapped 100 meters above the ground were safely brought down using a chair and rope. Officers from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and other departments participated in the drill.