Chandigarh Police Tests Emergency Response with Hotel Security Drill
Chandigarh Police executed a detailed mock security drill at Hotel Shivalik View in Sector 17 on Monday. This exercise aimed to evaluate preparedness and coordination among emergency services before Republic Day celebrations. Senior police officials directed and supervised the operation to ensure its effectiveness.
High-Level Supervision and Objectives
SP (Operations) Geetanjali Khandelwal provided directions for the drill, while DSP (Operations) Vikas Sheokand supervised the proceedings. A police officer explained that the primary goal was testing response mechanisms for potential terror or bomb threats. The exercise focused on seamless coordination between various agencies to enhance readiness for any untoward incidents.
Simulated Emergency Scenario Unfolds
During the drill, Police Operations Cell commandos quickly cordoned off the hotel premises and evacuated the area. Multiple specialized teams then launched a joint search operation. HIT teams, bomb detection squads, and dog squads worked together to locate threats.
They successfully discovered a dummy improvised explosive device near the CBTL entry point of the hotel. This simulated discovery triggered a comprehensive emergency response from various units.
Multi-Agency Response Activated
Upon receiving the alert, numerous emergency response units rushed to the scene. The responding teams included:
- Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs)
- PCR vehicles
- Dial-112 staff
- Fire brigade personnel
- Civil Defence teams
- Ambulances from GMSH-16 and Police Hospital, Sector 26
A mobile forensic team and personnel from the local Sector-17 police station also participated actively in the operation. This demonstrated the broad scope of agencies involved in such security scenarios.
Thorough Search and Safe Disposal
Following the initial recovery of the dummy device, security teams conducted a meticulous combing operation throughout the entire hotel premises. HIT teams, dog squads, and bomb squads worked together to rule out any additional suspicious objects. Their thorough search confirmed no other threats were present.
The dummy bomb received careful handling and transportation. Security personnel moved it to an open ground at Police Lines, Sector 26, using a sandbag-fitted vehicle under tight security. PCR vehicles provided escort during this transportation phase. As part of the drill procedure, the device was successfully defused at the designated location.
Significance of Such Preparedness Exercises
The police officer emphasized that these drills serve crucial purposes for public safety. They help identify potential gaps in response systems and strengthen coordination mechanisms. Such exercises prove particularly valuable during high-security events like Republic Day celebrations.
Regular mock drills ensure different agencies can work together effectively when real emergencies occur. They build confidence in response capabilities and improve overall security preparedness for the community.
