The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) successfully conducted a comprehensive communication mock drill today as part of preparations for the 9th State Level Mega Mock Exercise and the upcoming monsoon season. The drill was held under the leadership of D.C. Rana, Director-cum-Special Secretary (Revenue & Disaster Management).
The key objective of the exercise was to evaluate the robustness of the state’s emergency communication systems and to identify any operational gaps. As part of the drill, voice communication was tested with remote areas including Tissa (Chamba), Dodra Kawar (Shimla), Keylong (Lahaul-Spiti), Rekongpeo (Kinnaur), Bara Bhangal (Kangra), and Kugti (Chamba).
Real-time coordination capabilities were also assessed through video conferencing via V-SAT terminals, linking control rooms in Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi Hub, Rekongpeo, and Bengaluru. Satellite communication systems underwent a technical evaluation, ensuring functionality during disaster scenarios.
In total, 227 I-Sat phones were tested, covering a wide range of agencies including HPSDMA, DDMAs, police technical services, SDRF, NDRF, dam authorities, GREF, ITBP, and the Army. Additionally, 144 V-SAT phones were tested for connectivity, primarily from the Communication and Technical Services Wing.
The successful completion of the drill reinforces the state’s readiness for disaster response and highlights the importance of communication resilience during emergencies.
