Statewide mock drill in UP on May 7 for war preparedness

Lucknow: In a move aimed at enhancing civilian preparedness in the event of wartime emergencies, the Uttar Pradesh govt has begun preparations for a statewide mock drill based on directives from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The mock drill is expected to take place on May 7.

The exercise, focused on civil defence and wartime response, marks the first such initiative in the state since the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

Officials from the civil defence department and the UP Police are currently drawing up detailed strategies for the drill. The exercise will also include blackout simulations across the state, along with protocols for the evacuation and treatment of the injured.

Director general of the civil defence department Abhay Prasad said: "Preparations are already underway. The goal is to equip civilians with the knowledge and readiness needed in case of any conflict."

The department has offices in 15 districts of the state, covering a total of 26 districts through its operational network. As part of the initiative, authorities will assess emergency medical infrastructure, response times and coordination between various agencies in the event of mass casualties or large-scale evacuations. The drill will also serve as a refresher in civil defence protocols and aims to foster greater public awareness.