Deputy Commissioner Sangrur, Rahul Chaba, today convened a comprehensive meeting with officials from the Army, Police, Home Guards, Health Department, PSPCL, and other concerned departments in view of the first Civil Defence Air Raid and Blackout Mock Exercise scheduled to be conducted on April 24, 2026, from 8:00 PM onwards in Sangrur city.
Chairing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner clarified that the exercise is purely a mock drill aimed at assessing preparedness and response mechanisms in case of any emergency situation. He urged residents not to panic and to refrain from spreading or believing in rumours.
Rahul Chaba directed all departments to remain fully prepared and ensure effective coordination during the drill, particularly for scenarios involving air raids and blackout situations. He informed that the electricity supply in Sangrur city will be switched off at 8:00 PM only for 15 minutes, while the main mock exercise activities will be conducted in the local Army area.
Highlighting the importance of such initiatives, the Deputy Commissioner stated that, as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, such mock drills will be conducted twice a year. This will be the first drill involving coordinated participation from multiple departments including Police, Army, Fire Services, Health, Power, and Civil Defence agencies.
The Deputy Commissioner appealed to the public to strictly adhere to all advisories issued during the blackout to ensure safety and maintain public order. He also directed all officers to ensure meticulous compliance with the instructions in letter and spirit.
Representing SSP Sartaj Singh Chahal, DSP Karnail Singh briefed about the safety guidelines issued by Sangrur Police for the general public. Citizens have been advised to strictly follow light discipline during the blackout by covering windows with thick curtains or cardboard to prevent light leakage and switching off all external lights.
Residents have also been cautioned against operating portable generators inside enclosed spaces such as homes or garages due to safety hazards. Additionally, certain CCTV cameras with automatic lighting should be properly covered during the blackout.
Regarding public movement, citizens have been advised to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, as blackout conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents due to low visibility. Vehicle owners have been instructed to switch off headlights during the blackout period.
In case of unavoidable movement, individuals should carry identification documents, keep a flashlight handy, and cooperate fully with police personnel deployed on patrol and naka duties. For any emergency, citizens are advised to contact emergency helpline numbers such as 112 or 100 for immediate assistance, while power-related queries can be addressed through the PSPCL helpline.
Among others present in the meeting were officials from local Army authorities, Civil Surgeon Dr. Amarjeet Kaur, EXEN PSPCL Varinder Deepak, Home Guards officer Amrinder Singh, and other senior officers.