CHANDIGARH, May 11 — Amid escalating hostilities with Pakistan, the Haryana government on Saturday imposed a ban on the use of firecrackers and drones by civilians, while ramping up civil defence measures and emergency preparedness across the state.
Addressing a press conference following high-level meetings with Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, Home Secretary Sumita Misra said the state is fully equipped to manage any emerging crisis.
“We are committed to ensuring there is no disruption in essential services,” she stated.
Key decisions discussed during the meetings included the implementation of provisions under the National Disaster Management Act and the Civil Defence Management Act. All Deputy Commissioners have been allocated Rs 5 lakh each for emergency response readiness.
“Instructions have been issued to verify stocks of essential commodities and to strictly prevent hoarding,” Misra said, adding that citizens can call emergency helpline ‘Dial 112’ for both assistance and verified updates.
The Home Secretary also informed that additional security has been deployed around water resources, and citizens are advised to immediately report any suspicious object or activity to the police.
“Ambulance services will be enhanced. DCs have also been empowered to fill vacant positions at the local level, if necessary,” she added.
Guidelines for blackouts have been issued, and each district has been directed to set up a centralised command system. “People should avoid panic and rely only on official briefings. Do not believe in rumours,” Misra cautioned.
Despite the heightened security environment, she confirmed that “studies in schools and colleges will continue as usual from Monday. Any further decisions will depend on how the situation evolves.”
Misra also announced that enrolment for civil defence volunteers will begin across all districts starting Monday. “We appeal to citizens to come forward and register. Your cooperation is vital,” she said.
Army officials were also present during the security deliberations.
“Ambala and Sirsa are already on hotline alert. The Army is fully engaged and vigilant,” Misra added.
She concluded her briefing with an appeal: “There is no need to panic. Both the central and state governments are fully prepared to deal with any eventuality.”
