Punjab Stages Nationwide Mega Civil Defence Drills Amid Rising Tensions

On Wednesday, authorities in Punjab conducted a series of mock drills and blackout rehearsals as part of a nationwide civil defence exercise. This operation simulated emergency scenarios such as fires and coordinated mock rescue operations across several key locations in the state, including Ferozepur and Ludhiana.

During rehearsals, regions like Mohali and Chandigarh experienced electricity blackouts, though hospitals and medical facilities remained unaffected. These exercises aimed to evaluate the readiness and efficacy of emergency response systems, particularly after rising tensions with Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam attack.

The drills coordinated with agencies such as fire services, police, and disaster management teams, and included volunteer participants from groups like the Civil Defence and NCC. Officials emphasized the importance of public cooperation and trusted information sources during these exercises.

(With inputs from agencies.)