As part of the national effort to strengthen emergency response systems, Delhi will be conducting a major civil defence drill on May 9, 2025. This drill will include the activation of air raid sirens across all 11 districts of Delhi, followed by the testing of public response systems, evacuation protocols, and medical emergency procedures. The drill is designed to simulate an airstrike or other large-scale emergency scenario to assess the city’s preparedness.
The drill, which will take place at 4:00 PM, will be the most extensive such exercise in Delhi in recent years. The sound of the sirens will act as a signal for the public to take immediate action by seeking shelter or evacuating to safe zones. Authorities have been working for weeks to ensure that every resident is familiar with the siren sound and the steps they need to take to stay safe.
The exercise will also involve training personnel from various agencies, including Delhi Police, Fire Services, Civil Defence, and medical teams, to work together effectively in managing a crisis. These teams will be expected to collaborate and share resources efficiently, ensuring that the needs of the public are met promptly and accurately.
Key sites such as hospitals, schools, and government buildings will be used for evacuation and rescue simulations. Personnel will test the capacity of these buildings to handle large-scale evacuations and ensure that people with disabilities or special needs are provided for appropriately. Evacuations will be conducted under various conditions, such as heavy rain, limited visibility, or high levels of smoke or dust, which would test the resilience of emergency responders in adverse situations.
One of the most significant aspects of this drill is the public awareness campaign that has been conducted in the lead-up to the event. In the weeks prior, authorities have distributed materials to schools, offices, and community organizations to ensure that Delhi’s residents know what to do when they hear the sirens. Public education is essential to this drill’s success, as it ensures that people remain calm and respond effectively.