Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu convened a high-level emergency meeting Wednesday to review the state’s preparedness, including security, transport, and communication systems, food and power supply, disaster management, and health services. He also cancelled the pre-scheduled mega event Sarkar Aap Ke Dwar (The government at your doorstep), which was to be held at Banjar in Kullu district on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, flight services were suspended at Gaggal airport in ’s Jubbarhatti in the wake of the airstrikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). “The airport will remain open for use by the defence forces at any time,” a senior official said. The chief minister also conducted a detailed review of the state’s security systems and various administrative arrangements. He issued necessary directives to the deputy commissioners and superintendents of police in all districts. A decision on school holidays will be taken based on the evolving situation.
Interacting with the media after the meeting, Sukhu said, “All district magistrates have been instructed to ensure robust security arrangements in their respective districts. They have been asked to use technology-based inputs, with a special focus on reviewing schools in the border areas of Himachal Pradesh. Deputy commissioners have been directed to decide on school holidays depending on the situation. If any hostile action is taken by the enemy country, we are prepared to respond.”
The chief minister stressed that sometimes misleading propaganda is spread by the enemy through social media, and instructions have been issued to monitor such activities closely. He added that directives have also been given to avoid large gatherings, which is why he cancelled his visit to Banjar, where around 4,000 people were expected to assemble.
In Shimla city, a mock drill will be conducted on Wednesday evening. The drill will include an operational exercise at the deputy commissioner’s office complex and the Sanjauli area parking lot. The district administration will begin preparations for the mock drill from 10 am. Additionally, there will be a complete blackout across Shimla city from 7.20 pm to 7.30 pm.
Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap has urged the public to strictly follow administrative instructions and actively participate in the exercise. The mock drill will include evacuation rehearsals, during which people will be guided to safe locations.
Air raid warning sirens may be sounded during the drill. Upon hearing the sirens, residents should immediately vacate open areas and take shelter in a secure building, home, or bunker. Alternatively, they should enter the nearest building and try moving to a safe location. During the blackout, all lights will be turned off.
