Telangana holds state-level mock exercise in 17 districts with NDMA support
Hyderabad: The Telangana government, with support from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), conducted a state-level mock exercise on flood and industrial disaster response on December 22, 2025, across 17 districts.
The exercise aimed to test readiness at the state, district, and department levels. It followed recent instances of sudden heavy rains, flash floods, and major industrial accidents reported in different parts of Telangana.
Based on flood risk, officials conducted the state-level mock exercise in 12 districts. These included Khammam, Warangal, Kamareddy, Nizamabad, Medak, Mahabubnagar, Hyderabad, Suryapet, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Nirmal, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, and Hanumakonda.
Meanwhile, authorities conducted industrial disaster response drills in five districts. These were Sangareddy, Medchal–Malkajgiri, Rangareddy, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, and Nalgonda. In addition, officials conducted a separate mock exercise at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport.
State-level mock exercise tests preparedness and coordination
During the state-level mock exercise, officials activated Incident Response Systems at the state and district levels. As a result, departments tested coordination and emergency support roles under simulated conditions.
The drills improved awareness of flood warnings and emergency steps. Moreover, teams tested early warning and communication systems and identified gaps. The exercise also stressed timely evacuation, safe routes, and proper shelter planning.
Meanwhile, response teams checked manpower strength, rescue tools, PPE, and logistics. However, officials noted gaps in equipment and staff at some locations. Therefore, they emphasised the need for improved coordination and increased public awareness.
Similarly, industrial disaster drills highlighted the need for mutual aid among nearby industries. Officials said shared manpower and equipment reduced response time during fires and chemical incidents.
The drills also showed the need for clear SOPs for chemical leaks, fires, and power failures. In addition, teams reviewed alarm systems, evacuation plans, assembly points, and headcount methods. Coordination with fire services, police, and medical teams emerged as essential.
The state-level mock exercise was held under the supervision of Vikram Singh Mann, Director General of Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence. NDMA Lead Consultant Sudhir Bahl provided guidance. District collectors, line departments, volunteers, and other agencies took part actively.