Hoshiarpur District Administration to Conduct Blackout and Mock Drill on Friday/DC Full Blackout from 8 PM to 8:20 PM;

Hoshiarpur District Administration to Conduct Blackout and Mock Drill on Friday/DC
Full Blackout from 8 PM to 8:20 PM; No Need for Panic—It's Just Emergency Preparedness Practice
Mock Drill at DAV College
Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/April 23
The district administration will hold a mock drill at local DAV College on Friday evening as part of an exercise to raise awareness among residents on staying alert and safe during emergencies. A citywide blackout and mock drill will also take place from 8:00 PM to 8:20 PM on Friday.
Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain stated that residents need not panic or fear, as this is merely a rehearsal to strengthen civil defence measures. The mock drill will simulate steps for public safety and rescue in any crisis.
She explained that a siren will sound two minutes before the blackout begins, after which all lights must be switched off—no exceptions for homes, shops, or markets. Hospitals and industrial units are exempt. The DC urged citizens to treat the exercise seriously and fully cooperate by turning off lights.
Warning against rumours, the DC emphasized that this is purely practice and urged people to ignore misinformation. Strict action will be taken against anyone spreading false rumours about the event.
Civil defence volunteers, with support from relevant departments, will conduct the mock drill at DAV College to practise evacuating victims safely during incidents. The DC called it a vital step to boost public vigilance and awareness, seeking full public participation.