New Delhi, May 5: In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 individuals, predominantly tourists, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed several states to undertake comprehensive civil defence mock drills on May 7 to bolster preparedness against potential hostile threats. The directive underscores the need for enhanced civilian readiness, infrastructure protection, and coordinated emergency response mechanisms amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
According to senior government sources, the planned mock drills will encompass a range of preparedness activities including the activation of air raid warning sirens and training sessions for civilians, students, and emergency response personnel. The exercises aim to simulate real-world scenarios to educate and prepare the public for swift and effective action in the event of aerial attacks or other emergency situations.
A key component of the drills will be the implementation of “crash blackout” measures, where all lights in designated areas will be switched off to reduce visibility for any potential hostile aircraft. The drills will also include the early camouflaging of critical infrastructure such as power plants, communication hubs, and military installations. Furthermore, state authorities have been instructed to review and update evacuation protocols and conduct rehearsals to ensure timely and efficient movement of people from high-risk zones.
This proactive move comes at a time of rising tensions in the subcontinent. In a parallel development, a full-scale blackout rehearsal was conducted in the Ferozepur Cantonment area on Sunday evening from 9:00 to 9:30 PM. The exercise, carried out under the supervision of the Cantonment Board and Station Commander, saw complete compliance from the public as police personnel remained on high alert across intersections. SHO Gurjant Singh of Ferozepur Cantt Police Station confirmed that any vehicles found with lights on during the drill were promptly asked to switch them off.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, the Indian government has authorized the armed forces with complete operational freedom to determine the timing, method, and scope of any retaliatory action. The Cabinet Committee on Security, which convened shortly after the incident, was briefed on evidence pointing to cross-border involvement. The attack was described as an attempt to derail the positive momentum generated by the peaceful conduct of elections in Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory’s strides in development and economic revival.
Further intensifying its stance, the government has announced a temporary suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and imposed an immediate ban on the import and transit of all goods originating from Pakistan. This sweeping trade embargo, as per a notification from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, aims to isolate Pakistan diplomatically and economically over its persistent support to cross-border terrorism.
The Centre has also convened an all-party meeting to discuss the national security implications of the terror attack, where opposition leaders pledged their unconditional support to the government for any decisive steps taken in the interest of national integrity and security.
These coordinated measures reflect the government’s intent to prepare the nation for any exigency, send a clear message to hostile actors, and safeguard its citizens and territorial sovereignty.