World · India Bureau
Uttarakhand to test earthquake alert system with siren drill
Uttarakhand authorities will sound earthquake warning sirens across the state at 11 a.m. today as part of a routine test of the disaster alert system. Officials have urged residents not to panic, clarifying the siren activation is a scheduled awareness and equipment testing exercise.
LSN India ·
The Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority will conduct a comprehensive test of its earthquake early warning system, with sirens and sensors set to activate at 11 a.m. The exercise is designed to validate the functionality of alert mechanisms and familiarize the public with emergency protocols.
Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary of Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, appealed to citizens to remain calm during the test. "This is a routine procedural check of our warning infrastructure," Suman said, emphasizing that the siren activation carries no indication of an actual seismic event or emergency.
The state has been strengthening its disaster response capabilities in recent years, particularly following major earthquakes that have affected the Himalayan region. Regular drills and equipment testing form a critical component of Uttarakhand's preparedness strategy.
The authority expects the drill to conclude within a short timeframe. Residents are advised to note the time and familiarize themselves with the alert sound, which will aid in swift response during genuine emergencies. Authorities have requested that citizens refrain from spreading misinformation or causing unnecessary alarm among vulnerable populations during the exercise.