Jaipur: Rajasthan will conduct a statewide mock air raid rehearsal and blackout drill today across all district headquarters, including sensitive border districts like Jaisalmer and Barmer, following directions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The exercise is aimed at strengthening civil defence preparedness and testing emergency response systems in case of aerial threats or wartime-like situations. Officials have been instructed to treat the drill with seriousness and ensure realistic execution across the state.
Two-Minute Air Raid Warning Siren
According to officials, the drill will begin with a two-minute air raid warning siren, which will serve as the signal for the mock emergency response to start. Residents may also witness temporary blackout measures and movement restrictions in some areas as part of the simulation.
District administrations, civil defence teams, police, fire services, and other government departments have been directed to remain fully prepared for the exercise and coordinate closely for smooth implementation.
Essential Services to Remain Operational
Authorities clarified that essential services such as hospitals, fire brigades, and emergency response units will continue to function normally during the drill to avoid inconvenience to the public. The exercise is designed to test preparedness without disrupting critical services.
Jaisalmer District Collector Anupama Jorwal reviewed preparations during a high-level meeting at the collectorate attended by Superintendent of Police Abhishek Shivhare and officials from multiple departments. Necessary guidelines were issued to ensure proper execution of the rehearsal.
Focus on Border Districts
Special attention is being given to border districts such as Jaisalmer and Barmer due to their strategic importance. These regions often serve as key locations for defence preparedness exercises and emergency response planning.
Officials said the mock drill will help assess public awareness, warning systems, departmental coordination, and response time during emergency situations.
Public Advisory
Residents have been advised not to panic if they hear sirens or notice temporary blackout measures. The administration has clarified that this is only a preparedness exercise and not a real emergency.
People are encouraged to cooperate with local authorities and follow instructions issued during the drill.
Bigger Picture
The statewide mock air raid drill reflects the government’s focus on improving civil defence readiness and emergency response capacity amid evolving security challenges.
Such exercises help identify operational gaps, improve coordination among departments, and ensure that both authorities and citizens are better prepared to respond during actual emergencies.
The April 24 rehearsal marks one of Rajasthan’s major civil defence preparedness exercises, reinforcing the importance of readiness, public cooperation, and rapid response in crisis management.
