Tue May 06 16:55:49 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Conducts Nationwide Civil Defence Drill Amidst Rising Tensions with Pakistan
**Bengaluru, Karnataka, May 6, 2025** – Karnataka is participating in a nationwide civil defence drill, “Operation Abhyas,” following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and heightened tensions with Pakistan. The drill, ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs, will test the preparedness of civilians and officials in responding to potential threats.
Bengaluru, along with Karwar, Raichur, Mysuru, and Mandya districts, will conduct air raid warning and reaction drills throughout the coming week. The state’s Director General of Police and Director of Civil Defence, Prashanth Kumar Thakur, stated that these districts were chosen based on vulnerability assessments, with Bengaluru, Karwar (Mallapura), and Raichur (Shaktinagara) classified as Category II civil defence towns due to their sensitive infrastructure, including the Kaiga Atomic Power Station and Raichur Thermal Power Station. Bengaluru’s designation reflects its status as a major metro area with numerous vital establishments.
The first drill will take place at the Civil Defence Headquarters in Ulsoor, Bengaluru, on Wednesday, with the participation of local Members of Parliament. Prior to the drill, a check of the city’s 35 air raid sirens revealed three malfunctions. These sirens, audible within a 3km radius, signal high alert and the need for immediate shelter.
The drills will simulate various emergency scenarios, including air raids, building fires, search and rescue operations, casualty evacuations, and the establishment of temporary hospitals. Mr. Thakur indicated that further drills in Uttara Kannada, Raichur, Mysuru, and Mandya districts will be scheduled later this week. The exercises aim to equip civilians and officials with the skills to react effectively to real-time emergencies.
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