Why Did Bihar Experience a 10-Minute Blackout During Nationwide Civil Defence Drills?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable display of solidarity, Bihar conducted a 10-minute blackout across six districts, including Patna, as part of a nationwide civil defence drill. This exercise, spurred by rising geopolitical tensions, aimed to prepare citizens for potential emergencies. Learn more about this significant event and its implications.
Key Takeaways
- Coordinated blackout executed across six districts in Bihar.
- Part of a nationwide mock civil defence drill.
- Citizens demonstrated solidarity during the event.
- Emphasized importance of public preparedness amid geopolitical tensions.
- Successful execution reported by local officials.
Patna, May 7 (NationPress) In light of escalating tensions following India's air strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor, a synchronized blackout lasting 10 minutes was executed across six districts in Bihar, including the capital, Patna, on Wednesday evening.
At approximately 6:58 p.m., sirens echoed throughout the state. The alarm persisted for two minutes, followed by a power outage at 7 p.m., plunging neighborhoods, streets, and public spaces into darkness until 7:10 p.m.
This blackout was a component of a nationwide mock drill, orchestrated by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with local disaster management and civil defence units, aimed at preparing citizens for war-like emergencies.
During the exercise, vehicles came to a halt, drivers turned off their headlights, and citizens stood still in a show of unity.
The streets were enveloped in silence and darkness as residents turned off inverter lights and backup systems to mimic a genuine emergency situation.
People gathered outside their homes, chanting slogans such as “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” “Hindustan Zindabad,” and “Pakistan Murdabad.”
The drill was carried out in Patna, Purnea, Katihar, Kishanganj, Araria, and Begusarai, where local administrations had made extensive preparations.
In Patna, access to the Mahavir Temple near the railway junction was temporarily restricted until 7:30 p.m. as a safety measure, with similar precautions observed at the Rajvanshinagar Hanuman temple.
Officials reported strong public cooperation and effective execution of the drill. Bihar DGP Vinay Kumar previously indicated that the exercise aimed to assess civil defence readiness and public awareness amid current geopolitical tensions.
Once the drill concluded, power was restored, and traffic resumed without incident.
Earlier on Wednesday, in pre-dawn operations, the Indian Armed Forces targeted sites in Bahawalpur, Sialkot, Kotli, Muzaffarabad, and Barnala, where several significant terrorist camps were located. These camps had been implicated in training terrorists linked to previous attacks on India, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2023 Poonch pilgrimage incident.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the importance of civil preparedness in the face of rising global tensions. The recent blackout drill in Bihar not only showcased the state's readiness but also emphasized the need for public awareness. In a time of uncertainty, unity and preparedness become paramount for the nation's safety.
NationPress
08/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the blackout drill in Bihar?
The blackout drill aimed to prepare citizens for potential war-like emergencies amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Which districts in Bihar participated in the blackout drill?
The blackout drill was observed in Patna, Purnea, Katihar, Kishanganj, Araria, and Begusarai.
What were the public reactions during the blackout drill?
During the drill, citizens stood still, turned off vehicle headlights, and chanted slogans in solidarity.
Who organized the nationwide civil defence drill?
The drill was organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs in coordination with local disaster management and civil defence units.
How long did the blackout last?
The blackout lasted for a duration of 10 minutes.
