NDRF Conducts Earthquake Response Mock Drill at Patiala’s District Administrative Complex
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ February 4,2026
The 7th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Bathinda, today conducted a comprehensive earthquake response mock drill at the District Administrative Complex, Patiala. The exercise aimed to demonstrate effective rescue and evacuation procedures in the event of an earthquake.
Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia, while expressing gratitude to the NDRF team, said that under the leadership of Deputy Commandant Deepak Singh, the team effectively showcased methods of evacuating collapsed structures, identifying safe assembly points, and responding swiftly during seismic emergencies.
The NDRF personnel also created awareness among the public about clearing evacuation routes, adopting personal safety measures, and responding to medical emergencies. They demonstrated CPR techniques and procedures to manage cardiac-related incidents during disasters.
Quoting, ‘Hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst’ DC Walia said that preparedness is key to minimizing loss of life and property. “The district administration must always remain ready. This mock drill and training session at the DC Office Complex is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster management capabilities,” he added.
He further stated that various departments-including the Health Department, Indian Red Cross Society, PWD, Electricity and Water Supply Departments, Fire Services, Police, and Civil Administration-actively participated in the exercise. The drill helped enhance coordination among all stakeholders during emergency situations.
The DC also noted that the NDRF team displayed international-standard equipment and demonstrated highly efficient earthquake-response techniques. Recalling the 2025 floods, he said that NDRF, along with residents of Punjab, NGOs, the Army, Police, and the civil administration, played a crucial role in safeguarding lives.
NDRF Deputy Commandant Deepak Singh informed that the team will stay in Patiala for 10 to 12 days on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner to conduct mock drills and raise public awareness. He added that the team is visiting schools, colleges, villages, hospitals, and government offices to compile data profiles, which will support faster coordination during any disaster. “Time management is critical in saving lives during emergencies,” he emphasized.
The mock drill was attended by ADC (G) Simarpreet Kaur, CMFO Satish Chander, DRO Ankita Aggarwal, Inspector Anuradha, and other officials. The modern rescue equipment showcased by NDRF drew significant attention from the district administrative complex staff.
