Bhubaneswar, May 7: In the aftermath of the terrorist massacre in Pahalgam, the nation is witnessing heightened preparedness as a massive Civil Defense Mock Drill begins today across Odisha. Designed as a pre-war simulation exercise, the initiative will continue until May 10, covering 12 sensitive locations across the state, with a focus on public awareness and self-protection during aerial attacks.
Sirens to signal simulated attacks
As part of the exercise, air raid sirens—blaring at volumes between 120 to 140 decibels—will sound across designated zones, alerting residents to take cover. These sirens, capable of being heard up to 2 to 5 kilometers, are intended to simulate the onset of an enemy airstrike. The sirens will sound for five minutes, after which the public is expected to move to designated shelters within 5 to 10 minutes.
The Khurda district administration has identified government schools and cyclone shelters as safe zones, particularly for slum dwellers and coastal residents. Those without access to a shelter are advised to lie flat on the ground and cover their ears tightly with both hands.
A second long siren will sound 20 to 30 minutes after the first, signaling the "end" of the simulated attack—indicating enemy aircraft have departed. Upon hearing this, civilians may safely emerge from shelters.
Officials urge calm, Warn against panic and rumors
Fire Service DIG Dr. Umashankar Dash, overseeing the drill, emphasized that this is a preparedness exercise and urged citizens not to panic. “This is a necessary precaution, not a real emergency,” he said.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to TV, radio, and official government alerts, and avoid reacting to rumors or unofficial messages. Authorities stress the importance of strictly following instructions from local administration.
Historic alert after 54 years
This is the first time in over five decades that such a large-scale civil defense drill is being conducted. Similar siren alerts were last widely used during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Prior to that, sirens were employed during the 1962 India-China conflict, and in select areas during the 1965 war and the 1999 Kargil conflict.
Sirens to Sound in Strategic Areas
Sirens will be activated at key locations such as Kalpana, Baramunda, Ofdra, Secretariat, Chandrasekharpur, Jatni, Balianta, Pahala, and Balipatna. Fire brigade and police vehicles, as well as loudspeakers at traffic posts, will also be used to amplify alerts.
Under the jurisdiction of the Bhubaneswar Urban Police District (UPD), all police stations, PCR vans, and patrol vehicles will participate. Fire services are also equipped with 6000 RPM electric sirens, powered by 220/250 volts, and manual sirens as a backup during power outages.
Live demonstration in Bapuji Nagar
A major public demonstration will take place between Rajmahal Square and Bapuji Nagar, where Civil Defense and Fire Services will simulate a post-bombing rescue operation. This includes evacuating injured civilians, removing debris, and transporting victims to nearby hospitals. Four fire units and multiple civil defense teams will be stationed in the area, with senior government and police officials in attendance.
Railway station joins in emergency simulation
Earlier today, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) conducted a high-intensity rescue drill at the Bhubaneswar Railway Station, showcasing emergency response tactics in the event of a terrorist attack. RPF personnel demonstrated techniques for rescuing injured passengers and securing the premises.
Student training in OFDRA
In OFDRA, Baramunda, civil defense volunteers educated students from local schools and colleges on emergency response during aerial bombings. Demonstrations included techniques like lying low and protecting vital parts of the body, aimed at minimizing injury during explosions.
High-level coordination
The drill was coordinated under the leadership of District Collector Chanchal Rana, with key stakeholders—including the Commissionerate Police, BMC, and various government officials—participating in planning and oversight meetings held at the WASSAN Conference Hall.
The state government has reiterated that this is a preventive and educational measure. All residents are encouraged to cooperate fully with authorities and treat the mock drill as a serious learning opportunity in light of rising security threats.
