Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, May 6: Maharashtra will conduct comprehensive mock drills at 16 key locations across the state on Wednesday in response to directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, as India tightens internal security following escalating tensions with Pakistan.

According to state government sources, drills will take place in major cities and strategic zones including Mumbai, Uran, Tarapur, Thane, Pune, Nashik, Roha-Nagothane, Manmad, Sinnar, Thal Vaishet, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Aurangabad, Bhusawal, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg.

With heightened alertness in place, the state has instructed all departments and emergency agencies to be fully prepared. Guardian ministers and administrative leaders have been asked to maintain close coordination with local authorities as part of the pre-emptive strategy.

The upcoming drills will simulate a range of wartime contingencies. Activities will include testing air raid warning systems, verifying hotline and radio communications with the Indian Air Force, reviewing the readiness of control and shadow command rooms, and organizing civil defence training for civilians and students. The exercises will also test blackout protocols, camouflage measures for sensitive installations, and the functionality of civil defence services including rescue, firefighting, and evacuation plans.

These preparations mark the first such full-scale drill effort since the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict, highlighting the gravity with which current security threats are being treated.

However, the move has not been without political friction. Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut criticized the BJP-led central government, questioning the practical impact of such drills and drawing parallels to symbolic public campaigns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In 1971, yes, we saw blackouts and sirens, but back then the actions were real,” said Raut. “Now we have mock drills. What guns will the government hand us in case of real war? Are we just going to clap and bang plates again?”

Despite political jibes, the state is proceeding with its preparedness measures, aiming to reinforce public safety, operational readiness, and coordinated civil-military response amid a climate of increased national security concern.