NDRF conducts earthquake response mock drill at District Administrative Complex
Exercise aimed to demonstrate effective rescue and evacuation procedures during an earthquake
The 7th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Bathinda, today conducted a comprehensive earthquake response mock drill at the District Administrative Complex (DAC). The exercise aimed to demonstrate effective rescue and evacuation procedures in the event of an earthquake.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Varjeet Walia, while expressing gratitude to the NDRF team, said under the leadership of Deputy Commandant Deepak Singh, the team effectively showcased methods of evacuating collapsed structures, identifying safe assembly points and responding swiftly during seismic emergencies.
The NDRF personnel also created awareness among the public about clearing evacuation routes, adopting personal safety measures and responding to medical emergencies. They demonstrated CPR techniques and procedures to manage cardiac-related incidents during disasters.
Quoting, “Hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst” Walia said, “Preparedness is key to minimising loss of life and property. The district administration must always remain ready. This mock drill and training session at the DC office complex is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster management capabilities.”
He further stated that various departments — including the health, Indian Red Cross Society, PWD, electricity and water supply, fire services, police, and civil administration — actively participated in the exercise. The drill helped enhance coordination among all stakeholders during emergency situations.
The DC also noted that the NDRF team displayed international-standard equipment and demonstrated highly efficient earthquake-response techniques. Recalling the 2025 floods, he said the NDRF, along with residents of Punjab, NGOs, the Army, police, and the civil administration, played a crucial role in safeguarding lives.
NDRF Deputy Commandant Deepak Singh said the team would stay in Patiala for 10 to 12 days on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner to conduct mock drills and raise public awareness. He said the team was visiting schools, colleges, villages, hospitals and government offices to compile data profiles, which would support faster coordination during any disaster. “Time management is critical in saving lives during emergencies,” he emphasised.
The mock drill was attended by ADC (G) Simarpreet Kaur, CMFO Satish Chander, DRO Ankita Aggarwal, Inspector Anuradha, and other officials. The modern rescue equipment showcased by the NDRF drew significant attention from the DAC staff.
