A Complete Blackout: On May 7, 2025, Patna and five other cities in Bihar—Purnia, Katihar, Araria, Kishanganj, and Begusarai—participated in a coordinated civil defence mock drill simulating an air attack scenario. The exercise, part of the nationwide Operation Abhyaas, was conducted in response to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
At precisely 6:58 PM, air raid sirens sounded across these cities. The sirens signaled residents to initiate a 12-minute blackout until 7:10 PM. Citizens were instructed to turn off all lights, including those powered by inverters, and to refrain from using mobile phones. Vehicular movement was stopped, with drivers advised to dim or switch off their headlights. Prominent landmarks, such as the Mahavir Mandir near Patna Junction, Dak Bunglow Chauraha were darkened ahead of the siren to emphasize the seriousness of the drill.
This mock drill was a proactive measure to enhance public awareness and preparedness for potential aerial threats. It followed the Indian Army's 'Operation Sindoor,' which targeted terror hideouts in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as a response to the Pahalgam attack. While there is no official alert regarding an imminent threat, the exercise underscores India's commitment to national security and civil readiness.
The drill was a collaborative effort involving civic bodies, electricity departments, and security forces. Public compliance was notable, with social media platforms sharing images and videos of darkened streets and silent neighborhoods, reflecting the
Operation Abhyaas, organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs and coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority, was conducted across 244 districts in India. It included activities such as air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, evacuation drills, and public training sessions, aiming to bolster civilian readiness against potential hostile threats.
The successful execution of the drill in Bihar's cities highlights the importance of preparedness and the effectiveness of coordinated civil defence strategies in ensuring public safety during emergencies.
