National
07 May, 2025
Mock drill at cross Maidan in Mumbai simulates air strike scenario
Business Aajkal, Mumbai, 07 May 2025: At precisely 4 PM on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a siren echoed across Cross Maidan in south Mumbai, signaling the commencement of a mock air strike drill under Operation Abhyas. This nationwide exercise, coordinated by India's Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to enhance civil defence preparedness in light of escalating tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025.
Drill Overview
The simulation began with a simulated explosion, followed by a fire, as part of a coordinated response involving civil defence, fire brigade, and paramedic teams. These teams swiftly mobilized to rescue and treat the "injured," demonstrating the city's readiness to handle emergency situations.
In addition to the drill at Cross Maidan, similar exercises were conducted across 60 areas in Mumbai, with air raid sirens sounding at 4 PM, followed by 5-minute blackouts to assess the city's crisis response. The drill aimed to strengthen civil defence readiness and train volunteers in first aid, evacuation, and emergency protocols.
Nationwide Participation
Operation Abhyas was implemented in 244 districts across India, including major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. The exercise involved activities such as air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, evacuation drills, and public training sessions. Key locations like Cross Maidan served as gathering points for volunteers.
Objectives
The primary objectives of Operation Abhyas include:
• Assessing the effectiveness of air raid warning systems.
• Testing the functionality of control rooms and shadow control rooms.
• Training civilians in civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack.
• Evaluating the preparedness of evacuation plans and their execution.
These drills are part of a broader effort to bolster India's readiness against potential threats and ensure a coordinated response in times of crisis.