Civil Defence Mock Drill in Chennai and Kalpakkam on May 7, 2025

A civil defence exercise will take place in Tamil Nadu on May 7, 2025, as part of a scheduled mock drill to evaluate the preparedness of critical installations. The drill will be conducted at two vital locations: Madras Atomic Power Station at Kalpakkam and the Chennai Port Trust campuses. The exercise, organized in compliance with instructions from the Union Home Ministry, is set to begin at 4 p.m. and will simulate emergency conditions, particularly focused on responding to potential air raids.

Purpose of the Drill

The primary aim of the mock drill is to test the readiness of systems and response mechanisms within these key installations to handle emergency situations. This exercise will allow authorities to assess the operational preparedness in handling potential crises and to ensure that all involved departments are equipped to manage such events efficiently.

Key Participants and Coordination

The drill will involve a coordinated effort between various departments and agencies, including:

• District Disaster Management Authorities (headed by the District Collector)

• Civil Defence officials (Home Guards)

• Fire Department

• State Disaster Management Authority

• Police Officials

• Officials from Madras Atomic Power Station and Chennai Port Trust

In addition, the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) will be activated at the State Disaster Management Authority premises in the Ezhilagam complex, Chennai, to oversee the drill.

Timing and No Cause for Panic

The mock drill will take place from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will involve various simulated activities. Authorities have made it clear that this is a mock drill to test the emergency response systems at the installations and that there is no need for the public to panic. Routine functions across other areas will continue as normal during the exercise.

Final Clarification

Officials have urged the public to remain calm, emphasizing that this exercise is part of a larger effort to enhance safety measures and response preparedness for any potential emergency. The public is assured that the drill poses no risk and is being conducted solely for testing purposes.