Gurgaon: In preparation for the upcoming monsoon season, the district administration on Thursday organized a comprehensive multi-agency mock drill to evaluate the city's readiness for potential flooding and waterlogging at vulnerable locations. The exercise was spearheaded by the district disaster management authority and aimed at testing coordination, response times, and operational readiness of emergency services.
Participating Agencies and Drill Execution
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police, fire department, civil defence, health department, and other agencies took part in the drill. The exercise commenced with a siren at the Mini Secretariat complex, followed by the activation of the emergency operation centre. Rescue teams were dispatched to designated locations, while officials monitored activities from the control room. The drill was also livestreamed for real-time assessment.
Simulated Scenarios and Rescue Operations
As part of the simulation, DLF Phase 1 underpass and Signature Tower underpass were identified as flood-prone spots. Rescue operations were conducted at Basai pond, where teams demonstrated evacuation and water rescue techniques, including the safe extraction of two individuals shown trapped in deep water. Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh stated that the exercise aimed to evaluate preparedness and rapid response capability during flood-like situations. “The initial response window during any disaster is the most critical. Timely evacuation, transportation to hospitals and availability of medical facilities remain the top priority,” he said.
The mock scenario included simulated drowning deaths caused by vehicles trapped in submerged underpasses, electrocution incidents due to live wires in floodwater, road accidents, trauma injuries, and snakebite cases to test medical preparedness. According to officials, 23 injured persons were rescued during the exercise and shifted to Sector 31 Polyclinic for emergency treatment and first aid.
Support and Coordination
Police managed traffic and security arrangements, while fire and civil defence teams assisted in rescue efforts. Public Works and electricity department officials were tasked with infrastructure and on-ground support during the drill. The exercise highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration and swift response in mitigating disaster impacts.
