Testing the Dark: Punjab's Statewide Blackout Drill Enhances Emergency Preparedness
A statewide blackout mock drill was conducted across Punjab to test emergency preparedness and civil defense coordination. Conducted around 8 pm in various districts, the drill involved cutting electricity, signaling air raid alarms, and coordinating responses among agencies. The exercise aimed to bolster readiness for potential future exigencies.
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In a significant move to enhance emergency preparedness, officials across Punjab executed a statewide blackout mock drill on Friday evening. The exercise, which began at 8 pm, aimed to test civil defense readiness and inter-agency coordination.
Starting in Ludhiana, the Punjab State Power Corporation executed a strategic power cut affecting key areas like Punjab Agricultural University. Residents fully complied by abstaining from using generators for the drill's duration. At 8:15 pm, the resumption of power was announced by siren, marking the drill's successful conclusion.
Officials in Hoshiarpur and Amritsar echoed these efforts, simulating air raids and practicing blackout protocols. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs directed the drills to ensure comprehensive emergency response strategies are in place. Local law enforcement, health departments, and civil defense teams actively participated in these operations to safeguard community preparedness.
(With inputs from agencies.)

