DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Weekend weather map across India: 13 states including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu on rain alert; Heatwave looms over North India
Across India, weather extremes continue to clash. While rain and thunderstorms strike states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, the northern and central parts brace for heatwaves. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts in several districts. A low-pressure system is also likely to form over the Arabian Sea by 22 May, potentially intensifying rainfall. From thunderstorms in Delhi to floods in the South and scorching heat in the North, India's skies remain in flux.
India contributing to climate action with the urgency it demands: Bhupender Yadav
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized India's dedication to climate action, despite its minimal contribution to the crisis, during the 'Sagarmatha Sambaad'. He highlighted the disproportionate consumption of the global carbon budget by developed nations and their unfulfilled commitments to climate finance.
Exercise Raahat: Army, NDRF join forces for disaster relief excellence in Nagaland
The Indian Army's Spear Corps and NDRF conducted 'Exercise Raahat' in Nagaland, a disaster relief simulation focused on monsoon preparedness. The three-day event involved joint planning, equipment demonstrations, and rescue operation simulations. This collaborative effort aimed to enhance coordination and leverage technology for effective disaster response, ensuring better protection for communities.
Trump sued by 20 states over immigration demands and threats to cut funding
Twenty states, largely led by Democrats, are suing the Trump administration over threats to withhold federal funding related to transportation, counterterrorism, and emergency preparedness. The states argue the administration is illegally coercing them into adopting specific immigration policies by using federal funds as leverage.
Pakistan would have understood that they cannot fight with us in direct war: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged the Indian Defence Forces' strong response to Pakistan, emphasizing that direct warfare is no longer an option for the neighboring country. A review meeting was convened to assess Mumbai's security preparedness, given its vulnerability as India's economic capital and the potential for proxy wars.
Maharashtra govt holds meeting with defence forces, CM Fadnavis says, "Will work in greater coordination"
Amidst the India-Pakistan tension, an important meeting was held between the defence forces and the state government at Varsha residence under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the state government will work in greater coordination with the defence forces.
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Security to be upgraded at technical & scientific installations in border areas of J&K, Punjab
Union Minister Jitendra Singh convened a meeting to enhance security at technical and scientific installations in border areas of J&K, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, including IMD facilities in Srinagar and Leh. The focus is on bolstering preparedness at CSIR, DBT, IMD, and Earth Sciences institutions, emphasizing coordination with local authorities and implementing emergency response SOPs.
With India-Pakistan escalating conflict, Delhi identifies metro stations, basements as public air raid shelters
Delhi Police is boosting emergency readiness by identifying underground shelters and forming a specialised disaster response unit. Basements and metro stations are being earmarked as safe zones, while police compile lists of vulnerable residents for quick evacuation. The Delhi Police Disaster Response Force is also being trained for air raids and CBRN threats. The plan draws from global examples, where underground metros have long served as bomb shelters during conflict, from London in WWII to Kyiv in 2023.
Delhi govt orders emergency preparedness in hospitals; red cross sign to be painted on roofs
Amidst escalating military tensions with Pakistan, the Delhi government has ordered hospitals to heighten emergency readiness. Directives include painting Red Cross symbols, stockpiling essential supplies, ensuring generator functionality, and cancelling specialist leaves. Facilities must update ICU data, secure websites, maintain food supplies, and implement disaster management plans, with hospital heads monitoring preparedness and coordinating with district officials.
Watch: Thousands in Chandigarh queue to enrol as volunteers for emergency services amid India-Pakistan tensions
Chandigarh is on high alert. The local administration has requested volunteers due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. This follows strikes on terror targets. Residents are registering at various locations. The administration is implementing emergency protocols. These include blackout drills and siren awareness. Security and health services are strengthened. Citizens are urged to stay alert and trust official sources.
Be crisis-ready, firewall systems: FM Sitharaman to banks amid India-Pakistan escalation
Amidst the ongoing tensions with Pakistan, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has directed banks and financial institutions to maintain uninterrupted services nationwide, especially in border regions. She emphasized seamless cash availability, functional digital banking, and timely insurance claim settlements. Banks are also instructed to enhance cybersecurity, conduct audits, and coordinate with agencies like RBI and CERT-In.
Health Ministry cancels all leaves amid India-Pakistan tensions
In response to an impending situation, the Health Ministry has cancelled all leaves for its officials, ensuring preparedness by reviewing emergency health systems and mobilizing resources like ambulances, medical supplies, and hospital beds.
Assam cancels Bihu functions amid heightened security measures along India-Bangladesh border
Following India-Pakistan tensions, northeastern states are enhancing security. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma requested Bihu functions be cancelled from May 10. Meghalaya imposed a night curfew along the Bangladesh border. Tripura increased border surveillance. Sikkim is also on high alert and is taking proactive measures. BSF is using electronic gadgets for vigilance.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman reviews banking sector's operational and cybersecurity preparedness amid rising tensions with Pakistan
Nirmala Sitharaman chaired a meeting with bank and insurance heads. The meeting addressed cyber security readiness due to border tensions. Banks were directed to stay alert and ensure uninterrupted services. They must audit cyber systems and designate officers for cyber and operational matters. Banks are coordinating with RBI and CERT-In. Employee safety in border areas is also a priority.
Indo-Pak tensions: Maharashtra to cancel leaves of key officials in health, disaster management departments
Maharashtra government has cancelled leaves for top officials in key departments. This decision follows a security review by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The government will act against those spreading fake news. Mock drills for preparedness will occur in all districts. War rooms will be set up, and hospitals will coordinate during blackouts. Cybercrime will monitor social media.
India-Pakistan Tensions: Health Minister Reviews Emergency Preparedness and Medical Readiness
Amid India-Pakistan tensions, J P Nadda reviewed emergency medical preparedness. The ministry established a 24x7 control center. Hospitals are ensuring drug and blood availability. AIIMS New Delhi mobilized doctors and nurses. Mock drills occurred at major hospitals. Training modules for emergency healthcare are being rolled out. The Union Health Secretary held meetings for coordination.
India to up civil defence, security net on critical infra, cyber resources
Following a high-level review by Prime Minister Modi, India is set to bolster its civil defence and cyber security measures nationwide. The move includes mobilizing civil defence volunteers, enhancing security for critical infrastructure across sectors like power and transportation, and activating State Disaster Management Authorities. The government is also focusing on countering misinformation and ensuring seamless coordination between agencies.
Delhi on high alert amid escalating tensions with Pakistan; govt employees' leave cancelled
Due to escalating hostilities between India and Pakistan, the Delhi government has cancelled all employee leaves until further notice. District magistrates are reviewing health and disaster preparedness in case of emergencies. Recent shelling by Pakistani troops along the LoC in Kupwara and Baramulla districts prompted civilian movement to safer areas, with the Indian Army responding proportionately to the ceasefire violations.
Canada tests emergency alert system to ensure public safety across provinces except Quebec and Alberta
Canada tested its Alert Ready system nationwide. The test occurred on phones, radios, and TVs. British Columbians received alerts around 2 p.m. EDT. Ontarians got theirs at 12:55 p.m. Service providers distributed these alerts. People cannot opt out. The alerts warn about environmental disasters or civil emergencies. In Ontario, almost 240 alerts were issued the previous year.
TCS, Wipro issue advisory ahead of emergency preparedness mock drills
TCS and Wipro issued advisories urging employees to follow government and local authority directives during nationwide mock drills on disaster preparedness, including sirens and blackouts. The companies emphasised staying indoors, avoiding panic, and not relying on unverified sources, aligning with Ministry of Home Affairs guidance.
Govt tells telcos to stay alert, ensure uninterrupted connectivity amid India-Pakistan tensions
Amid rising India-Pakistan border tensions, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed telecom operators to heighten preparedness and ensure seamless connectivity, especially in emergency operation centers. Telcos are instructed to maintain critical infrastructure functionality within 100 km of the border, keep adequate diesel reserves, and strategically deploy repair crews.
Mock drills held at 9 Delhi Metro stations to enhance emergency preparedness
Delhi Metro conducted mock drills at nine stations, including Rajiv Chowk and Botanical Garden, to enhance emergency preparedness. DMRC coordinated with CISF, DDMA, and other agencies to train staff in evacuation, communication, and assisting commuters during emergencies. The drills focused on swift and safe responses, ensuring passenger safety and readiness for unforeseen situations.
Assam conducts civil defence mock drills to enhance emergency preparedness
Across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram, extensive civil defence mock drills, directed by the MHA, were conducted at multiple locations to enhance emergency response readiness. These drills simulated air-raid scenarios, assessing coordination among various agencies like police, fire services, and health departments. The exercises aimed to raise awareness and preparedness for potential disasters, ensuring minimal damage to life and property.
Telangana: Comprehensive mock drill conducted in Hyderabad's Golconda
India conducted civil defence mock drills nationwide. This followed rising tensions and government directives. The drills aimed to assess emergency response readiness. They included simulations and public training. Multiple agencies participated in the exercises. These drills occurred after a terror attack in Pahalgam. India also launched 'Operation Sindoor', targeting terrorist infrastructure. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval briefed international counterparts.
Mock drills conducted at several locations in Punjab
Punjab conducted statewide mock drills simulating fire emergencies and rescue operations across cities like Ferozepur, Ludhiana, and Mohali, prompted by national directives amid heightened tensions. These exercises, involving agencies like fire services, police, and NDRF, aimed to evaluate and enhance emergency response efficacy.
Uttarakhand: Comprehensive mock drill carried out at seven locations in Dehradun
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India conducted nationwide civil defence mock drills across major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, directed by the MHA to assess preparedness against evolving threats. These drills, encompassing simulations of blackouts and evacuations, aimed to enhance public awareness and response capabilities during emergencies.
India to conduct nationwide civil defence mock drills across 275 districts
India is gearing up for nationwide mock drills. These drills aim to improve disaster preparedness. Over 275 districts will participate. Maharashtra, Delhi, and other states are tightening security. The drills will educate civilians on safety measures. Volunteers will participate to assess resource needs. The goal is to minimize loss of life and property during emergencies. BJP encourages public participation.
Delhi, Mumbai districts among 244 set for mock drills on May 7: Check details
India will conduct a nationwide mock civil defence drill on May 7 across 244 locations, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. The exercise comes amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in April. It aims to improve first-response capabilities for air raids, blackouts, and other emergencies. The drill will be the first of its kind since 1971 and involves over 244 civil defence districts, including sensitive areas such as Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.
Kerala to conduct statewide civil defence mock drill on May 7 amid security concerns
Kerala is gearing up for Civil Defence mock drills across 14 districts on May 7. The exercise, directed by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to assess preparedness. State Chief Secretary A Jayathilak urges public cooperation. Residents are advised to follow blackout instructions and stay indoors. Local leaders will guide communities.
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