‘Operation SHIELD’: Massive Mock Drill Scheduled Across J&K on May 31

Simulating Crisis: A Statewide Preparedness Test

In a significant step toward strengthening disaster response capabilities, the Jammu and Kashmir government will carry out a comprehensive mock drill under Operation SHIELD across all 20 districts of the Union Territory on May 31.

The exercise is being organized by the Department of Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (DMRRR), in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

Objective: Enhancing Emergency Response

The drill is designed to assess and improve the readiness of district administrations, police, fire services, health departments, and other first responders. Officials confirm that the simulation will include scenarios such as earthquakes, terrorist attacks, and other high-intensity emergencies.

Authorities have been instructed to ensure public awareness and avoid panic by issuing advance notifications and conducting outreach in schools, colleges, hospitals, and marketplaces.

Standard Operating Procedures to Be Reviewed

As part of the drill, each district will evaluate its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and update them based on observations made during the exercise. Key learnings from the operation will inform future strategies and investments in safety infrastructure.

“This is not just a mock exercise, but a serious test of how ready we are to handle emergencies,” said a senior official involved in planning the operation.

Public Participation and Transparency Emphasized

The administration has called for cooperation from the general public and emphasized that the drill is a proactive measure to ensure their safety. Mock scenarios will be conducted in populated areas with real-time coordination between departments to simulate ground-level challenges.

Citizens are being encouraged to take the exercise seriously and participate where required, as part of a broader culture of community readiness.