Jammu to Conduct Blackout and Evacuation Drill Tonight, Says DC Sachin Kumar

By A Staff Reporter

Jammu, May 31 — In line with the nationwide civil defence initiative “Operation Shield,” a coordinated mock drill involving a blackout and evacuation exercise will be conducted in Jammu this evening, Deputy Commissioner Sachin Kumar announced on Saturday.

The drill is scheduled to run from 8:15 PM to 8:30 PM and aims to test the region's preparedness in case of a real emergency, such as an air raid or other external threat. “This is a preparedness drill, not a real emergency,” DC Kumar stressed, urging citizens not to panic and to participate responsibly.

“All stakeholders are actively involved in this initiative, including civil administration, civil defence, police personnel, sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs), and relief and rescue teams,” Kumar said. Public instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) have already been shared through an official notice.

As part of the blackout component, residents are requested to switch off all lights in their homes during the 15-minute period. The evacuation segment will simulate movement to safe zones, with personnel guiding civilians through the process in designated areas.

“The key message for the public is, do not panic,” reiterated the Deputy Commissioner. “The purpose of this drill is to ensure that in the event of a real emergency, citizens know how to respond effectively and protect themselves.”

Operation Shield is being conducted across all border states and Union Territories, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Chandigarh. It follows lessons learned from earlier exercises and recent escalations with Pakistan.