Residents, hotels ignore mock drill orders amid heightened border tensions
SHIMLA: Despite heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the successful Operation Sindoor, attempt at a blackout drill in Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla on Wednesday (May 7, 2025) night ended in failure.
While the District Disaster Management Authority conducted a mock drill with participation from civil defence members, the actual blackout was not observed in most parts of the city.
Streetlights remained on and residents in several localities, including areas beyond the Ridge, did not switch off their lights. Many hotels too kept operating normally, drawing criticism from citizens on social media.
Airspace closed, security measures tighten across Himachal
In the wake of growing border tension, particularly in northern states, Himachal Pradesh has taken significant precautions. The airports in Shimla, Kangra and Kullu have been temporarily shut and border vigilance with China and Tibet has been intensified.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu held an emergency high-level meeting to review the situation, including disaster management, power supply, transportation, communication and food security.
He emphasised the need for coordinated action and strict compliance with directives, especially in crowded public areas.
CM reviews situation, emphasises readiness
Chief Minister Sukhu praised the Indian armed forces for the success of Operation Sindoor and reiterated the state’s preparedness to handle emergencies.
Accompanied by top officials, including the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, the CM instructed district administrations to enhance vigilance and ensure public cooperation in emergency protocols.
He confirmed that while no fresh directions had come from the Home Ministry, the state was reviewing school safety in border districts and will act according to the evolving situation. The scheduled IPL match in Dharamshala will proceed as planned.
TNR News Network
