Telangana conducts first State-level mock exercise on floods and industrial disasters

The Telangana government conducted its first State-level mock exercise on disaster response on Monday in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), focusing on preparedness for floods and industrial accidents.

The large-scale exercise was organised in response to recent climate-related challenges faced by the State, including sudden heavy rainfall and flash floods, as well as a series of industrial accidents reported in recent years.

Based on identified flood-prone zones, the mock exercise was carried out across 12 districts including Khammam, Warangal, Kamareddy, Nizamabad, Medak, Mahabubnagar, Hyderabad, Suryapet, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Nirmal, Jayashankar Bhupalapally and Hanamkonda.

Separate drills addressing industrial disaster response were conducted in five districts including Sangareddy, Medchal-Malkajgiri, Rangareddy, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri and Nalgonda, as well as at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad.

Officials said the primary objective of the exercise was to assess and strengthen disaster preparedness at the State and district levels, operationalise incident response systems, evaluate inter-departmental coordination and test the effectiveness of emergency support functions. The exercise also aimed at clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of the State Disaster Management Authority, Telangana Integrated Command and Control Centre, State Disaster Response Force, district collectors and other line departments.

The flood response drills improved understanding of flood risk indicators and emergency procedures, tested early warning and communication systems and helped identify operational gaps. Authorities said the exercises underlined the importance of timely evacuations, identification of safe evacuation routes and shelters, and assessed the readiness of response teams, rescue equipment and logistical support. The drills also highlighted the need for better coordination between agencies, enhanced community awareness, and regular training to maintain preparedness and confidence among responders.

The industrial accident mock exercises provided key insights into the importance of mutual aid among neighbouring industries during emergencies such as fires and chemical leaks. The drills tested standard operating procedures for chemical incidents, fire outbreaks and power failures, while improving awareness of on-site emergency procedures among employees and contract workers. They also assessed alarm and communication systems, evacuation protocols, assembly points and the condition of emergency equipment.

Officials noted that the exercises reinforced the need for stronger coordination with external agencies such as fire services, police and medical teams, and helped management review and strengthen both on-site and off-site emergency plans.