Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 21 March 2024
On March 20, 2024, a joint mock exercise testing earthquake and fire incident responses took place at the Indian Space Research Organisation’s Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Dollygunj, Port Blair. Coordinated by the Directorate of Disaster Management, the A & N Police, A & N Fire & Emergency Services, Directorate of Health Services, and District Administration, the drill aimed to evaluate preparedness levels and response systems.
Using real-time earthquake and fire simulation scenarios, the exercise scrutinised the readiness of the CISF Team of ISTRAC. Emphasis was placed on safe evacuation, search and rescue operations, fire extinguishing techniques, and medical support.
Upon receiving notification of the simulated earthquake and fire, the Assistant Commandant of CISF, ISTRAC, promptly activated the response mechanism. Information was relayed to Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC), Fire, and Health Control Rooms. Simultaneously, officials and CISF personnel were mobilized to manage the crisis.
All ISTRAC staff were swiftly evacuated to designated safer locations. Fire service and medical teams, equipped with fire tenders, ambulances, and rescue squads, rushed to the scene to contain the emergency. The search and rescue team successfully extricated three staff members trapped in a collapsed building, ensuring their safe rescue and transfer to medical care.
The mock drill concluded at 12:00 PM, followed by a debriefing session where observers outlined findings and identified gaps. The In-charge of ISTRAC and the Assistant Commandant of CISF commended the collective efforts of staff and various departmental teams for their active involvement in the drill.
Authorities stressed the importance of regular preparedness checks and continuous training for personnel in police, fire, health, and disaster management departments to enhance their skills in handling crises effectively in the future.