Punjab Newsline | Mohali
Punjab will carry out a statewide mock drill today (April 24) to assess preparedness for emergency situations similar to wartime conditions. As part of the exercise, a blackout will be enforced from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM, accompanied by sirens across multiple districts. The drill is being conducted under the directions of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Authorities have completed all necessary preparations. During the blackout, the use of generators and torches will be restricted, and public announcements will be made to raise awareness. The government has urged citizens not to panic and to fully cooperate with the exercise.
District-wise Details
Mohali: The district administration will conduct a mock drill at the District Administrative Complex in Sector 76 and nearby areas between 8:00 PM and 8:15 PM, as informed by Deputy Commissioner Komal Mittal.
Pathankot: A blackout will begin at 8:00 PM after a two-minute siren at 7:58 PM. The blackout will last until 8:15 PM, followed by another two-minute siren signaling the end. It will be limited to 50 municipal wards, while rural areas will have normal power supply.
Jalandhar: A mock drill will be held at Khalsa College for Women on April 23, with a blackout at 8:00 PM within the campus. According to DC Varjeet Walia, the drill is aimed at testing emergency preparedness and will not cover the entire district.
Ludhiana: The blackout will be observed from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM, with a siren at 7:55 PM. Areas under PAU, Kitchlu Nagar, and Aggar Nagar divisions will be affected. Mock drills will be conducted at 12 locations.
Amritsar: A civil defence mock drill, including an air raid simulation and blackout, will take place at Pytex Ground in Ranjit Avenue. The blackout will last from 8:00 PM to 8:10 PM.
Tarn Taran: An air raid and blackout drill will begin at 8:00 PM, starting with a two-minute fluctuating siren. Power supply may be temporarily suspended. Residents have been advised to stay calm and cooperate.
Fazilka: Being a border district, special vigilance will be maintained during the statewide drill at 8:00 PM. Residents have been instructed to switch off non-essential lights. A two-minute “all clear” siren will mark the end.
Bathinda: The mock drill will begin at 8:00 PM with sirens, followed by a blackout in identified areas such as PUDA Market and 100 Feet Road. The 15-minute drill will include search and rescue, relief work, and medical response. Essential services will remain operational.
Ferozepur: The drill will start at 8:00 PM in the city, cantonment, and sensitive border areas with a two-minute fluctuating siren indicating an air raid warning. Residents will then be required to switch off lights.