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

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Government conducted its first-ever state-level mock exercise on floods and industrial disasters on December 22, 2025. The State coordinated the drill with the National Disaster Management Authority to strengthen preparedness and emergency response across Telangana.

The government organised the exercise after recent climate changes triggered sudden heavy rainfall and flash floods in several districts. The State has also reported major industrial accidents in recent years. Based on flood-prone areas, officials conducted mock drills in 12 districts—Khammam, Warangal, Kamareddy, Nizamabad, Medak, Mahaboobnagar, Hyderabad, Suryapet, Bhadradri Kothagudem, Nirmal, Jayashankar Bhupalpally and Hanumakonda.

Officials separately carried out industrial disaster response drills in Sangareddy, Medchal–Malkajgiri, Ranga Reddy, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri and Nalgonda. They also conducted a drill at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, considering the presence of major industrial facilities.

Officials said the exercise aimed to test and strengthen preparedness at the State, district and departmental levels. The drill helped operationalise incident response systems and assess inter-departmental coordination. Authorities also evaluated emergency support functions and clarified the roles of SDMA, TGiCCC, SDRF, district collectors and other response agencies.

State-level mock exercise improves coordination, identifies gaps

Officials said the flood-related drills improved awareness of early warning signs and evacuation procedures. The exercise strengthened emergency communication systems and highlighted gaps in manpower, equipment and logistics. Responders stressed the need for timely evacuation, safe shelters and regular training. Many teams reported higher confidence in handling real flood situations.

The industrial disaster drills highlighted the importance of mutual aid among nearby industries during fires and chemical leaks. Officials gained clarity on standard operating procedures, emergency team roles and evacuation systems. The exercise also improved coordination with fire services, police and medical teams. Management teams used the findings to strengthen on-site and off-site emergency plans.

Vikram Singh Mann, Director General of Telangana Fire, Disaster Response, Emergency and Civil Defence, supervised the exercise. Sudhir Bahl, NDMA Lead Consultant, also oversaw the drills. District collectors, line departments, volunteers and multiple State and Central agencies actively participated.