Mock Drill Conducted in Shimla to Assess Preparedness for Earthquakes and Other Disasters

Shimla, June 6: As part of a nationwide initiative, mock drills were conducted across all districts of Himachal Pradesh on Friday to test readiness for responding to earthquakes and other disasters. The drills were organized by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in coordination with the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).

In Shimla, Vikasnagar petrol pump, Portmore School, and IGMC Hospital were designated as affected zones for the purpose of the exercise. At the Vikasnagar petrol pump, a mock scenario involving a fire was enacted, prompting a swift response from disaster management and fire department teams, who successfully brought the simulated blaze under control.

Evaluating Response Mechanisms

Retired Major General Sudhir Bahl, Principal Advisor to the NDMA, visited the site to assess the drill. He emphasized that in any disaster situation, it is the public who must respond first before emergency services arrive. Raising awareness and building public preparedness, he said, is critical—and that was the primary objective of the drill.

However, he noted that the level of preparedness observed at the petrol pump during the simulation was not up to the expected standard. Several gaps were identified, and guidance was provided on how to address them. The exercise served as a valuable opportunity to assess current readiness and highlight areas in need of improvement.