This Is a Mock Drill, Public Need Not Panic: Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand

An unexpected sounding of sirens across Hyderabad at 4:00 PM today surprised residents, prompting concern and confusion. However, Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand clarified that the event was part of a civil mock drill conducted as per the directives of the central government.

Commissioner C.V. Anand stated that the objective of the mock drill was to raise public awareness regarding emergency situations and to assess the coordination between various government departments. He emphasized that there was no reason for public alarm.

Speaking to the media after the drill concluded in Hyderabad, Commissioner C.V. Anand explained, “We simultaneously activated industrial sirens, petrol pump vehicle sirens, and police vehicle sirens. The Command and Control Centre issued directives instructing people to remain safely where they were. The mock drill simulated aerial attacks in four strategically selected areas of the city.”

He added that the exercise served to evaluate the performance and response time of officials and staff from several government departments. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Revenue Department, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Municipal Administration, Police, Fire Services, Electricity, and Transport Departments swiftly arrived at designated locations and initiated emergency operations.

The drill included demonstrations of evacuating the injured to hospitals and extinguishing fires. Fire engines and ambulances reached the mock incident sites with the assistance of traffic police, who created a green channel to facilitate swift movement. Medical personnel administered first aid and conducted stretcher evacuations for the severely injured as part of the drill.

Commissioner C.V. Anand stated, “The purpose of this mock drill was to evaluate how efficiently and in coordination the government machinery operates during such critical incidents. We also identified certain shortcomings. We will soon hold a review meeting with officials from all departments and work towards addressing these gaps. All necessary improvements will be implemented to effectively handle any future emergencies.”

He urged the public not to believe in any false information and to contact emergency services by dialling 112 if assistance is needed. He reiterated that the drill was solely a preparedness exercise aimed at enhancing public alertness.