Kerala’s Statewide Mock Drill: A Glimpse into Emergency Preparedness
On May 7, 2025, at 4 PM, Kerala seemed to experience a few moments as if facing a real threat. Roads turned empty, lights in homes went off, and people vanished from the streets. But there was no need for alarm—it was only a test of possibilities: a state-wide civil defense mock drill.
This wasn’t a scene from a movie. It was a condensed simulation of how to respond in situations like war or after a terrorist attack. It was conducted as part of “Operation Abhyasam,” an initiative by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The drill was carried out across 126 centers in all 14 districts of the state. From government offices to hospitals, shopping malls, theaters, and residential buildings—everyone took part.
Street noises came to a halt. Since the public had been informed in advance, no injuries were reported. In many residential areas, 'mock drill wardens' took charge. Instructions reached everyone through public announcements and phone messages. Some people quickly grabbed their first aid kits, while others charged their torches to be prepared.
Police, fire and rescue personnel, disaster management authorities, civil defense volunteers, and medical teams—all operated from their posts with precision and coordination. In Thiruvananthapuram, the siren announcing the end of the drill rang at 4:28 PM—a community exercise that kept to schedule.
This drill reminds us how valuable these peaceful and secure moments truly are. Yet, we must always be prepared. From now on, every home should ensure the availability of essentials like fire escape ladders, first aid kits, and hand generators.
Ultimately, the drill concludes with a reflection—we can face even the worst situations if we work together. It was just a drill yesterday—but we learned many important lessons from it.