Thursday, May 08, 2025 10:15 [IST]
Last Update: Wednesday, May 07, 2025 17:16 [IST]
SINGTAM, :An Air Raid Mock Drill was conducted at NHPC Balutar on Wednesday as part
of a nationwide disaster preparedness initiative. The drill involved fire
alerts and sirens at the NHPC dam premises, with health professionals executing
coordinated rescue efforts. Fire brigade personnel were seen dousing simulated
flames at the NHPC premises, while the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)
carried out rescue operations.
Victims
from the mock scenario were transported to Singtam District Hospital in an
ambulance, while those portrayed as critically injured were referred to STNM
Hospital in Gangtok.
The
drill was observed by Gangtok DC Tushar Nikhare along with other officials.
“Singtam
is an up-and-coming town and a bustling area of Gangtok district. Often, we
conduct disaster drills only in Gangtok town, so we decided to move out of that
specific location. The primary focus was the vital installation at the NHPC
Balutar site, where powerhouses are nearby. In the event of real or simulated
airstrikes, this town is a critical zone,” said Nikhare.
The
DC further stated that the mock drill was successful and provided important
lessons.
“We
learned what aspects need improvement. The response was good. Once we received
information that a vital installation was hit, we deployed our resources into
four groups. Within 10 to 15 minutes, the team had reached the NHPC site from
the main control room. They evacuated people and also provided treatment to the
injured. The critically injured were taken to Singtam District Hospital,” he
added.
Commenting on the outcome, Nikhare said, “Since this was a simulated strike, there is always a tendency for a casualty element to creep in, but thankfully, there were no real casualties. If such a situation escalates, are we ready? To an extent, yes. We will share our feedback with the chief secretary and the Director General of Police. We are also working to augment our capacities. This simulation helped test and strengthen our disaster response capabilities.”
