Mumbai: The Mumbai Civil Defence Department has issued a detailed advisory for citizens, housing societies, schools, and corporate offices to stay prepared for any emergency in the wake of increased security concerns following India’s Operation Sindoor. The operation, launched on May 7, targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Though India and Pakistan agreed on May 10 to cease all military actions by land, air, and sea, Mumbai authorities are taking precautionary steps to ensure public readiness.
The advisory for citizens urges people to remain calm and rely only on official news sources such as television, radio, and verified government social media platforms. People are advised to keep emergency kits ready with torches, batteries, candles, first-aid items, important medicines, drinking water, dry food, ID documents, some cash, and phone chargers or power banks. Citizens should identify nearby shelters or bunkers and follow blackout instructions if issued. In case of an air raid alert, they must move to a secure place, avoid windows, turn off lights, cover openings, and avoid using lifts. Families are encouraged to create an emergency plan that includes meeting points and responsibilities, especially considering the elderly, children, disabled persons, and pets. Travel should be minimized, and people should avoid sharing unverified information online.
For housing societies, the department advises appointing a communication coordinator, conducting evacuation drills, and identifying safe zones within buildings. Societies must restrict visitor access, maintain movement registers, and coordinate with police. Emergency supplies should be stocked in each household for at least three days, and fuel levels in generators should be monitored. Residents are asked to stay calm, support vulnerable neighbours, and avoid rumours.
Corporate offices are directed to appoint crisis coordinators, train staff on emergency protocols, and set up safe zones. Offices should secure data, reduce external visits, and ensure backup power systems are ready. During alerts, employees should move to safety, turn off all equipment, and avoid elevators. Work should resume only after an official all-clear is announced. Counselling and mental health support for employees is encouraged.
Schools are advised to switch to online classes if required, identify secure zones, maintain emergency kits and contact lists, and guide students to safety during alerts. Parents will be allowed to pick up children only after verified communication, and schools are urged to support students’ mental well-being.
The Mumbai Civil Defence has also shared important helpline numbers including 100 (Police), 101 (Fire), 108 (Ambulance), 1916 (Disaster Management), 1098 (Child Helpline), and power supply helplines for different providers. Officials have called for public cooperation and calm while assuring that these measures are meant to prepare, not panic, the population.
