Bhopal witnessed a comprehensive civil defence mock drill and blackout exercise on Wednesday, aimed at raising public awareness about emergency preparedness and testing the efficiency of administrative agencies. Conducted under the guidance of Collector and District Magistrate Kaushlendra Vikram Singh, the drill involved impactful rescue operations at five key locations in the city. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav virtually monitored the mock drills across five districts from the State Disaster Management Control Room in Bhopal, engaging with district collectors to review the exercise. At DB Mall, a fire drill simulated rapid firefighting and safe evacuation of the injured during a blaze.

 

A temporary hospital at Sarojini Naidu Girls College effectively demonstrated primary treatment for victims. In New Market, a successful evacuation exercise transported people to Police Lines, showcasing excellent crowd management and relief co-ordination. In the BHEL area, a search and rescue operation extracted individuals trapped in debris, while at Kokta Multi, a building collapse simulation saw efficient rescue efforts for trapped persons. Collector Singh noted that the drill validated the co-ordination among agencies and citizen participation in emergencies, praising the efficiency of all involved teams.

 

From 7:30 pm to 7:42 pm, a city-wide blackout exercise was seamlessly executed. Following the Red Alert siren, citizens switched off lights at homes, shops, offices, and institutions, while drivers halted vehicles and turned off headlights and taillights. The Green Alert siren at 7:42 pm signalled “all clear,” allowing lights to be restored. Residents displayed discipline and responsibility, adhering fully to administrative directives.