Nationwide Mock Drill on May 7: Sirens, Blackouts, and Emergency Alerts Planned—What Citizens Must Know and Do

6 May 2025

In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed the lives of 26 people, tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated. Given the high-level security discussions and rapid developments, there is growing speculation of possible military action by India, and a retaliatory strike from Pakistan cannot be ruled out.

Taking these factors into account, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued instructions to all states to conduct nationwide civil defence mock drills on Wednesday, May 7.

Mock Drill Across 244 Districts, Including 16 Locations in Maharashtra

The mock drills will be held across 244 districts in the country and will be divided into three categories. In Maharashtra, 16 locations have been identified for the drills.

Mock Drills At 81 Locations Including Laxmi Road, FC Road, Pune Railway Station — What Should You Do?

The purpose is to train civilians on how to respond during emergencies, especially in scenarios like air raids and wartime conditions. Citizens will receive guidance on evacuation, safety protocols, and civil defence procedures.

Categorization of Locations in Maharashtra:

• Category 1 includes key cities like Mumbai, Uran, and Tarapur.
• Category 2 includes Thane, Pune, Nashik, Roha-Dhatav-Nagothane, Manmad, Sinnar, Thal-Vaishet, and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
• Category 3 covers Aurangabad, Bhusawal, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg.

What Will Happen During the Mock Drill?

• Air raid sirens will be sounded to simulate an attack scenario.
• Crash blackouts will be conducted by cutting off all visible lighting to make targeting harder for enemies.
• Evacuation rehearsals and emergency communication protocols will be tested.
• Civil defence volunteers, police, and local officials will coordinate the drills.
• Citizens will be trained in self-protection methods, emergency exit planning, and first-response techniques.

What Should Citizens Do? Key Guidelines:

1. Stay calm when sirens are heard. These are part of the drill, not real emergencies. Follow instructions from local authorities.
2. Move away from open areas immediately when sirens sound. Take shelter in nearby buildings or bunkers within 5–10 minutes.
3. During the blackout phase, turn off all lights in homes and vehicles. Cover windows and doors with dark cloth to prevent light leakage.
4. Participate actively in the drill if you’re in the area. Learn how to protect yourself during real emergencies.
5. Practice emergency exits calmly. Know the nearest safe zones and discuss them with family members beforehand.
6. Pay attention to TV, radio, and official government alerts. Do not believe or forward rumors.
7. Learn about the emergency kit—which should include water, a flashlight, first aid supplies, copies of important documents, extra clothes, and blankets.
8. Cooperate with local authorities, civil defence volunteers, and police. If you’re part of any civil protection group, help others and assist the elderly or disabled.
9. Inform children in advance about the drill so they do not panic. Explain the sirens and blackout procedures to them.
10. Rely only on verified sources for information—preferably government broadcasts or official channels.

Maharashtra Gears Up With Exercises In 16 Key Locations Including Mumbai And Pune As Nationwide Mock Drill To Take Place On May 7

The nationwide mock drill is a proactive step by the government to ensure the safety and readiness of citizens in times of national threat. Everyone’s cooperation is essential to make the exercise successful.