Chandigarh: Haryana conducted its first state-level flood mock drill simultaneously across 13 flood-prone districts on Thursday to strengthen disaster preparedness and emergency response systems ahead of the monsoon season. The exercise was aimed at drawing lessons from the floods witnessed in 2023 and 2025 and strengthening Haryana's preparedness-based disaster management framework.
Leadership and Coordination
Haryana financial commissioner (revenue and disaster management) Sumita Misra led the exercise from the state control room in her capacity as the state incident commander. The mock drill was conducted in Gurugram, Ambala, Faridabad, Fatehabad, Kaithal, Karnal, Kurukshetra, Panchkula, Panipat, Palwal, Sirsa, Sonipat and Yamunanagar, which have been identified as high flood-risk districts. Two separate simulation sites were identified in each district to test response mechanisms under realistic flood scenarios.
Objectives and Outcomes
Misra stated that the exercise was conducted to evaluate the state's disaster preparedness systems, improve interdepartmental coordination, validate emergency response mechanisms and identify gaps requiring further improvement. She emphasized that the Haryana Government is committed to developing a proactive, technology-driven and community-centred disaster management system capable of responding swiftly during emergencies.
The drill involved multiple agencies including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, fire services, health departments, and civil administration. Simulated scenarios included rescuing stranded individuals, setting up relief camps, providing medical aid, and restoring essential services. The exercise also tested communication systems and early warning dissemination protocols.
According to officials, the lessons learned from the mock drill will be incorporated into the state's disaster management plans. The government plans to conduct similar drills in other districts and at the village level to ensure community participation. This initiative is part of Haryana's broader strategy to build resilience against natural disasters, especially in the wake of increasing climate variability.
