CM Dr. Mohan Yadav has stated that national interest is paramount, and ensuring citizen safety in extraordinary situations is the government’s top priority. He stressed the importance of making people aware of civil defence protocols so they can protect themselves during any adverse event. All citizens should be encouraged to actively follow these protocols. He directed all district collectors to remain alert, cautious, and closely monitor the evolving situation.
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav addressed the collectors of Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, and Katni from the Situation Room at Vallabh Bhavan on Wednesday. He reviewed the civil defence mock drills and emergency rehearsals conducted in these districts. The Chief Minister instructed that all safety norms must be followed in the public interest and asked collectors in other districts to also ensure robust civil defence preparedness.
The review meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Shri Anurag Jain, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Rajesh Rajora, Additional Chief Secretary Home Shri J.N. Kansotia, Additional Chief Secretary PWD Shri Neeraj Mandloi, and other senior officials.
Director General of Police Shri Kailash Makwana, connected virtually from the State Disaster Management Control Room, informed that mock drills have been successfully conducted in all five districts as per the Ministry of Home Affairs’ directives, and preparations for a blackout have also been made. Citizens were thoroughly trained in emergency response.
Director General of Home Guards Shri Arvind Kumar said that following the red alert issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, citizens were informed about civil defence protocols and encouraged to follow them. After this, a green signal was issued, and people were instructed to stay equally alert during any real-life emergency. He also mentioned that a blackout will take place at 7:30 PM on May 7, and the entire exercise will be documented for future reference.
Through video conferencing, the Chief Minister interacted with the five district collectors and reviewed the mock drills. Bhopal Collector reported that drills were completed at five key locations in the city and preparations for the blackout were finalized. Indore Collector confirmed the completion of drills and explained that citizens were briefed on how to act during any adverse situation. Blackout preparations were also complete. Jabalpur Collector stated that drills were carried out at designated locations and citizens were educated on civil defence protocols. Gwalior Collector reported that rescue teams were mobilized during the drill, and citizens were trained in search and rescue operations. KatniCollector informed that citizens were educated on civil defence procedures to handle all types of emergencies. Mock drills for fire and debris removal were conducted, and a mock siren was used to demonstrate emergency response techniques.
Public representatives and social workers also participated. Blackout readiness was confirmed.