Mayur Vihar society takes a pause for security drill

New Delhi: At 4.19pm on Wednesday, Sahyog Apartments, a housing society in Mayur Vihar Phase 1, came to a standstill with the blaring of a siren. Residents were prepared as they had been informed about the civil defence drill ‘Operation Abhyaas' through a notice. Around 4pm, the street outside the main gate was closed off to traffic, only allowing pedestrians.About 8-10 Delhi Police vehicles were deployed in the area and over 50 civil defence volunteers, along with Aapda Mitra Delhi personnel, were present. Four ambulances were kept on standby — two were fully equipped while two were smaller, meant for emergencies. All four vehicles were instructed to go to Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital in case of any emergencies that could threaten people's well-being and lives. The executive magistrate was also present, briefing the workers and the residents.Three NDRF vehicles were deployed -- a truck, a pickup truck with equipment, and a bus with about 30 personnel. Delhi Fire Services provided one fire truck to the drill efforts. A vehicle from the ministry of gas and petroleum carrying barricading and sewer manhole opening tools was also taken into the society. A water tanker was also supplied.Rashmi, a resident, said, "We were informed about the drill on Tuesday. Policemen and workers from various govt departments trained us for an airstrike, in view of the current tense political climate." The residents, she added, were comforted by the friendliness of the personnel, who gave specific information on how to help oneself and those around in case of an emergency.