As tensions grow between India and Pakistan, Delhi is preparing for a major civil defence drill to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness. On May 9, 2025, the capital will witness a large-scale mock exercise aimed at testing the city’s readiness in the face of potential air strikes or other emergencies. This drill is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that citizens, emergency responders, and local authorities are well-prepared to deal with a variety of threats.

The trial, scheduled to take place at 4:00 PM, will feature air raid sirens sounding off across 11 districts in Delhi, including high-traffic areas like Connaught Place, Old Delhi, and other key administrative hubs. The objective is to familiarize citizens with the sirens and teach them how to respond to such warnings. The mock exercise will also involve practicing evacuations, conducting search-and-rescue drills, and assessing the effectiveness of local shelters, which will be tested for their ability to protect the public in case of an attack.

Delhi’s police, fire, and disaster management authorities will collaborate with civil defence volunteers, medical personnel, and other first responders in this drill. These coordinated efforts will be crucial in ensuring a quick and effective response should a real emergency arise. More than 500 personnel will be involved in the drill, with simulation exercises planned to address a wide range of emergency situations, from airstrikes to large-scale evacuations.

This initiative is not only a preparation for an attack but also an effort to promote public awareness. The authorities are keen on ensuring that citizens understand the importance of staying calm and following protocols during emergencies. Community outreach programs have been conducted over the past few weeks, teaching people about the proper way to react to sirens, where to seek shelter, and how to stay informed through government channels.

While the exercise is taking place in Delhi, it is part of a nationwide initiative that spans multiple cities across India. The ultimate goal of these drills is to build a well-coordinated national response to potential threats, ensuring that India’s civil defence infrastructure is strong, adaptable, and effective in times of crisis.