Civil defense personnel participating in the “Operation Abhyaas” in Ulsoor, Bangalore on Wednesday. |Picture source: K. Murali Kumar
In response to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ directives conducted by the exercise, various stakeholders conducted a civil defense operation Abhyaas operation here on Wednesday.
The multidisciplinary teams include Civil Defense, National Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire and Emergency Services, National Disaster Response Force, Medical Team, Family Guards, National Military Academy Student Corps (NCC), Central Reserve Police Force, Intelligence Agency and the City of Bangalore participated in the exercise, which began at 4 pm.
A rescue drill was conducted on Wednesday in part of the “Operation Abhyaas” of Karnataka Fire and Emergency Services in Ursol, Bangalore. |Picture source: K. Murali Kumar
Exercises conducted during the exercise included a Civil Defence Team’s water rescue operation in Ulsoor Lake, high-rise building fire rescue using fire trucks, water tenders, rope suspension and stretchers methods.
In addition, the coordination between the home guards for the construction of evacuation drills, civil defense, SDRF, fire service and search and rescue operations is also part of the drill.
Civil defense personnel participating in the “Operation Abhyaas” in Ulsoor, Bangalore on Wednesday. |Picture source: K. Murali Kumar
Home Secretary G. Parameshwara, who witnessed the exercise, said a similar situation occurred in 1972.
He said: “We can recall the events that happened in the country at that time. We are now facing similar situations. The recent events in Kashmir hurt every Indian. Twenty-six people were attacked without any love.
He said that due to the prevalence between India and Pakistan, preparations for such drilling are needed.
Children closed their ears when the air strike sirens went out during a civil defense drill in Bangalore on Wednesday. |Picture source: K. Murali Kumar
Power outage drill
After the exercise, participants were instructed to hold a power-off drill at 7 p.m. in case of power outage. They were instructed to turn off all lights, sealed curtains and evacuate within seven minutes.
The personal emergency kit includes two sets of clothing, flashlight, dried fruit and emergency phone number, also known as the necessary conditions during a power outage.
NCC trainees who came to observe the drill said it was a useful experience for them. “We have learned how to respond to emergencies and we will be able to protect our family or students when needed,” said Prithvik and Vandana of Peenya Surana College.
Air siren activation
Earlier in the day, 32 of the 35 air raid sirens were activated, mainly installed in the famous fire and police stations in Bangalore.
The Southern Central Railway (SCR) conducted a comprehensive civil defense drill at the Letcher Railway Station. A dedicated team of 32 members of the SCR's Civil Defense organization and support staff from the local railway station actively participated in the 45-minute drill, which began at 4 p.m.
The exercise is designed to assess the readiness of personnel in response to crisis situations quickly and effectively.
publishing – May 8, 2025 at 01:13 AM IST
