What happens to a simulation exercise? Air strike warning, power outages, vital devices for camouflage, evacuation and…
India-Pakistan tensions will be held nationwide mock exercises with particular emphasis on highly sensitive border countries such as Punjab, Rajasthan, Jamu & Kashmir, West Bengal and Northeast.
This will be the first national simulation exercise after the 1971 India-Pakistan War, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh. To enhance preparation, the Union's Ministry of the Interior has requested civil defense campaigns and rehearsals in 244 classified areas on May 7. The exercises will be held nationwide, with particular emphasis on highly sensitive border countries such as Punjab, Rajasthan, Jamu & Kashmir, West Bengal and Northeast. The simulation exercise will simulate wartime or emergency situations to test and improve civil defense mechanisms, inter-agency coordination and public preparation.
When the simulation exercise will test the preparation of war, it will focus on testing different systems, civilian responses and simulated wartime conditions. The Ministry of the Interior has proposed some steps in a simulation exercise held on May 7.
Air strike warning sirens
Authorities will activate air strike sirens in participating areas to simulate an upcoming attack. Will ensure that the sirens are operating and civilians react to them. Coordination with the Indian Air Force (IAF) through hotline and radio communication links will also be evaluated.
power failure
The simulated power outage will be held in cities and other areas selected for the simulation exercise, and the lights will be turned off to prevent enemy aircraft or drones from seeing the target in a potential night attack. Civilians will be required to postpone all lights within a specific time. The exercise will be held mainly in major cities, border areas, and nearly critical infrastructure such as power plants, dams, government buildings.
Important device for disguise
Authorities will conduct camouflage exercises in critical infrastructure and important facilities, such as power plants, communication hubs, military devices, airports, refineries and railway yards. The drill will focus on covering them from enemy shooting or surveillance. These devices may be blocked, or their visibility may be greatly reduced.
Rehearsal of evacuation
The simulation exercise will also include evacuation rehearsals, which will simulate the movement of civilians from high-risk areas to safer areas such as shelters or bunkers. Evacuation routes, coordination efficiency among agencies and public compliance will also be tested.
Test communication system
During the simulation exercise, the control room and the shadow control room will be tested. Their functions and communication skills will be examined and will be evaluated for how they respond quickly to emergencies. Their ability to coordinate with the IAF and other agencies will also be tested.
Infrastructure
The simulation exercises will also focus on inspecting infrastructure preparations such as shelters, warning systems and coordination facilities. Likewise, bunkers and ditches in the border areas will be cleaned and prepared. These exercises will be conducted as proactive steps to ensure readiness. Authorities will be careful that the public will not be disturbed and that minimal damage will occur.
