Mock drill conducted in city to check readiness for air attack

A mock drill was conducted in the city on Wednesday to test the preparedness of the administration and general public in the event of an air strike. Sirens were sounded at various public places, including the Post Office, Government Textile College, Government Medical College, Agriculture Bhawan, Railway Workshop, Cooperative Bank, Hall Gate, Town Hall, Government Senior Secondary School, Kot Khalsa, D-Division police station and Mai Bhago Polytechnic College.

The loudspeakers installed under the Smart City project also alerted the public about the drill. The residents were informed about the safety measures they need to adopt during air strikes and blackouts. Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney stated that the drill was an exercise to check the preparedness of the administration and the general public.

A blackout drill was also conducted in the district from 10:30 pm to 11 pm, during which people were asked to keep all lights switched off. The PSPCL also switched off lights in residential areas to ensure compliance with the orders.

The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the public not to panic and not to believe in rumours. She also urged people to avoid panic buying, adding that special teams have been constituted to check black marketing of essential items.

The administration has imposed a ban on the use of firecrackers in the district, citing the potential for confusion during critical times. The ban has been imposed under Section 163 of the BNS and will remain in force until further orders.

The Punjab State Women’s Commission has postponed its Lok Adalat scheduled to be held in the city on May 9 till further orders. The administration is taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety and security amid the rising tension. The public is advised to follow the instructions and guidelines issued by the administration and remain calm and vigilant.

The administration has also instructed media professionals not to click any pictures or record any videos during the blackout. Officials of the district administration stated that any photography or videography would require the use of light which is not allowed.

Amritsar