Twin cities conduct emergency drills

In response to heightened war hysteria between Pakistan and India, the district administration and the Civil Defence Department have launched full-scale emergency drills across major hospitals in Rawalpindi.

These drills aim to prepare medical staff for scenarios involving aerial attacks, fires, or bomb threats, ensuring safe evacuation of patients, caregivers, and hospital personnel.

On Friday, a comprehensive training session was conducted at Holy Family Hospital, where approximately 300 staff members—including doctors, nurses, paramedics, guards, and janitorial staff—were trained in rescue operations.

District Officer Civil Defence Talib Hussain confirmed that the exercise included real-time simulations of fires and bomb threats.

The Bomb Disposal Squad also participated, offering hands-on training on identifying and neutralising different types of explosives.

Staff members were shown how to respond to explosive threats, and practical sessions were held under the supervision of both male and female instructors.

Drills simulated emergency evacuations from multiple hospital floors, with female doctors and nurses actively participating in transporting patients from upper levels to safer locations.

The training was described as a "full-dress rehearsal," preparing hospitals for worst-case scenarios such as missile strikes or rocket attacks that could damage infrastructure.

On Saturday, the drills are scheduled to continue at the District Headquarters Hospital, followed by sessions at Benazir Bhutto General Hospital, the Cardiology Centre, and the Urology Hospital.

Dr Sharjeel, focal person at Holy Family Hospital, called the exercise "a timely and much-needed initiative," emphasising that many participants received this type of training for the first time.

"Such training should become a routine part of hospital operations. Every young person should have practical knowledge of civil defence and rescue techniques," he said.

On the other hand, the district administration of Islamabad also conducted emergency drills following the emergency preparations across the federal capital.

According to a spokesperson, sirens, drills, and public safety awareness campaigns are being carried out to prepare for any possible crisis. He said the high-rise buildings throughout the capital have been equipped with emergency sirens. These sirens are meant to alert residents in case of any serious threat.

Major commercial and residential buildings, including Centaurus Mall, Zarghoon Plaza, and Khudadad Heights, have been selected for emergency drills.

With additional input from APP