Watch: Thousands of Chandigarh cohorts register among emergency service volunteers in India-Pakistan tensions

A long queue was seen in Chandigarh on Friday after local governments called on volunteers to assist volunteers in taking preparatory and public safety measures after rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The coalition territory activated its emergency response package after India’s attack on Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) on 7 May.

Chandigarh citizens respond to government calls

As emergency measures take effect, a large number of residents in community centers, schools and administrative offices have registered as volunteers. Officials reported that hundreds of people lined up at each location despite the shutdown of non-essential services from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. on May 10.

Volunteer-driven part of bigger emergency plans

The volunteer registration event is part of a broader contingency strategy launched by the Chandigarh government after the terrorist attacks on Pahalgam on April 22 and subsequent hostilities escalated. The government has also issued orders related to power outage agreements, firecracker bans, and temporary closures of schools, coaching centers and public places.
Officials confirmed that trained volunteers will guide residents during emergency alarms, power outages and evacuation when needed. The government also designates safe shelters, including hotels and Dharamsalasshould be used in emergency situations.

Siren awareness and preparation are underway

Residents are being trained for emergency alarm signals. “Red Alarm Siren: A fluctuating high and low tone lasts about five minutes, indicating an upcoming air strike or emergency. All of this clears the sirens: a continuous, indicating that the threat is suspended and restores to normal.”

These signals can be activated in a short period of time. The government is working to improve the coverage and hearing of these alarms by installing more siren throughout the city.

Safety, health services and basic supply measures

Safety in critical devices has improved and the health department has activated the disaster management control room for GMSH-16. “The fleet of ambulances has been strengthened and equipped with the required equipment, manpower and medicines,” the official statement said.

All government employees in the basic services were instructed to stay in Chandigarh and deploy. Authorities have also issued warnings to point out the hoards and profits of basic commodities.

Power outages and simulation exercises went smoothly

A comprehensive power outage and simulation drill was conducted earlier this week to test the city’s ready. “The citywide power outage observed Thursday night and the simulation exercises conducted earlier were successfully performed,” the District of Columbia said.
The government also advises owners and commercial organizations to ban lighting, including solar lights and lighting signs, during power outages.

Public urges to stay alert and rely on official resources

Citizens have been reminded to trust only official channels for updates. “It is important to note that emergency announcements, including outage alerts, may be issued in a short period of time – from five to ten minutes. Therefore, citizens are asked to remain alert and act immediately upon receiving such communications.”

For emergency assistance, residents can call Hotline No. 112.

(Input from PTI)