News

📅 Date: May 7, 2025
📍 Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
⏰ Time: Sirens sounded at 4:00 PM

For the first time in over five decades, Hyderabad conducted a large-scale civil defence mock drill under Operation Abhyaas, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness across the city. Coordinated across multiple departments and involving active public participation, the operation was a landmark event in the region’s approach to crisis management and emergency response.

🔔 When the Sirens Rang

At precisely 4:00 PM, warning sirens echoed across Secunderabad, triggering the start of the operation. Within moments, emergency response units sprang into action. Fire engines blared, ambulances rushed in, and personnel in full gear moved into position, simulating a real-time disaster situation. Though the public had been informed, the drill’s scale and execution made the simulation feel intense and authentic.

👥 Who Was Involved?

The drill involved a coordinated response from various emergency and support agencies, including:

• National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
  
• Telangana Fire and Emergency Services
  
• Hyderabad Police
  
• Civil Defence Units
  
• Health Department
  
• Municipal Workers and Traffic Police
  

🧪 What the Mock Drill Included

Operation Abhyaas was more than just a fire drill—it simulated a multi-dimensional urban disaster scenario. Here’s what was executed:

🏢 Scenario: Residential Building Emergency

• A mock situation was created where a residential building was “hit” by a sudden disaster—possibly an earthquake followed by a fire.
  
• Residents were instructed to evacuate using stairwells while avoiding elevators, following real emergency protocol.
  

🚒 Rescue Operations

• Firefighters simulated extinguishing the blaze on multiple floors using high-pressure hoses and fire ladders.
  
• NDRF personnel conducted search and rescue operations in smoke-filled areas using breathing apparatus and thermal imaging devices.
  

🚑 Medical Response and Casualty Handling

• On-site triage zones were established.
  
• Medical staff treated “injured” volunteers with mock wounds.
  
• First responders performed CPR, bandaging, and stretcher evacuations.
  

🧯 Hazardous Material Containment

• A leak simulation tested the response to chemical hazards.
  
• Teams in hazmat suits demonstrated proper sealing, decontamination, and evacuation procedures.
  

🚨 Crowd Management and Public Communication

• Police controlled bystander crowds and managed traffic diversions.
  
• Public announcements were made using megaphones and speakers, guiding people on where to go and how to stay safe.
  

🎯 Why It Matters

The primary goal was to evaluate Hyderabad’s preparedness for various emergency scenarios, including:

• Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
  
• Industrial and chemical accidents
  
• Terrorist attacks or armed conflict
  
• Fires and building collapses
  
• Mass casualty events
  

🏢 Local Highlight: Operation Sindoor at Evelon Apartment

Running alongside Abhyaas was Operation Sindoor, a community-centric drill conducted at Evelon Apartment, Hyderabad. This drill emphasized public involvement and practical training for residents.

🔧 Key Mock Drill Activities at Evelon Apartment:

• Evacuation Drill: Residents were alerted and guided through timed evacuation procedures.
  
• First Aid Training: Medical officers taught basic CPR, wound care, and how to assist injured neighbors.
  
• Fire Safety Demonstration: Residents learned how to use fire extinguishers, break glass safely, and identify emergency exits.
  
• Disaster Simulation: Simulated power cuts, blocked exits, and injured dummies made the situation feel real.
  
• Coordination with Authorities: NCC and SDRF personnel worked side by side with residents and building security.
  

👥 Agencies Involved in Operation Sindoor:

• Fire Department
  
• National Cadet Corps (NCC)
  
• State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)
  
• Medical Services
  
• Hyderabad Police
  
• Electricity Board
  

🧠 Key Lessons and Takeaways

• Preparedness saves lives: Both drills highlighted the value of proactive training.
  
• Community involvement is crucial: Residents are the first line of defence during any emergency.
  
• Speed and coordination matter: The smoother the coordination among departments, the more effective the response.
  
• Public awareness is power: Education on emergency tools, escape plans, and basic first aid is essential.
  

🌐 A New Chapter in Civil Defence

Operation Abhyaas and Operation Sindoor signal the beginning of a new era in India’s civil defence strategy—one that blends top-down planning with grassroots participation. Hyderabad has demonstrated that with the right preparation and people-focused training, a city can transform itself into a resilient, responsive, and resourceful urban community.

Emergencies don’t come with a warning—but preparedness can make all the difference. Hyderabad just proved it.