From Dal Lake to Marine Drive: How Indian cities are bracing for tomorrow's air raids, blackouts, and evacuation mock drills

India is conducting its first national civil defence mock drill since 1971 on May 7, with state-wise exercises unfolding across 259 locations in 33 states and union territories. From Delhi to Odisha, each region is simulating wartime scenarios with air raid sirens, blackouts, and evacuation training. Police, civil defence units, students, and volunteers are preparing in coordination with central authorities. The drill aims to test India’s emergency readiness amid heightened tensions after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people dead.