Wed May 07 19:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Nationwide Blackout Mock Drill in India Amidst Heightened Tensions with Pakistan
**NEW DELHI** – A nationwide civil defense mock drill, including planned power blackouts, commenced across several Indian states today, May 7th, at 4 pm. The drill, ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in response to “new and complex threats” following recent terrorist attacks and the ongoing escalation of tensions with Pakistan, will test emergency response capabilities.
The drill, which also includes simulated casualty scenarios and evacuation plans, features power blackouts lasting 10-15 minutes in various areas, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Punjab. Most areas experienced blackouts beginning at 8 pm, with Ferozepur, Punjab, starting at 9 pm. The blackouts are a strategic element of the drill, mimicking wartime tactics to reduce visibility and protect critical infrastructure.
This nationwide exercise comes on the heels of “Operation Sindoor,” a joint military operation launched earlier today by India targeting nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Indian military stated that the operation struck terrorist infrastructure responsible for planning and executing attacks against India. Precision strike weapon systems from the army, navy, and air force were utilized.
The MHA cited the April 22nd Pahalgam terrorist attacks as a catalyst for the nationwide drill, emphasizing the need to prepare for potential future threats. The mock drill aims to assess the preparedness of various agencies and civilian populations in managing emergency situations stemming from potential conflict.
First Piper 