The Deputy Commissioner expressed sincere appreciation to the residents of Chandigarh for their exemplary cooperation over the past two days. The citywide blackout observed on the previous evening, as well as the mock drill conducted earlier, were both executed successfully. The administration particularly commends the contributions of Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Market Welfare Associations (MWAs) in mobilizing community participation, disseminating verified information, and effectively countering the spread of misinformation.
Guidelines Regarding Emergency Sirens
The public is advised to familiarize themselves with the following emergency siren signals:
1. Red Alert Siren: A fluctuating, high-low pitched tone lasting approximately five minutes, signifying an imminent air attack or emergency situation.
2. All Clear Siren: A single, continuous tone indicating the cessation of threat and return to normalcy.
These sirens may be activated at any time, day or night, based on the evolving situation. The Administration is in the process of augmenting the volume of existing sirens and installing additional units to ensure comprehensive citywide coverage.
Observations from the Blackout Drill:
The following points were observed during the recent blackout exercise and merit immediate attention:
• Solar Lighting: All solar-powered lights must be manually deactivated during blackout periods. RWAs and MWAs are encouraged to assume voluntary responsibility for ensuring compliance.
• CCTV Surveillance Systems: Certain night-vision cameras emit light during operation. Property owners are advised to disable this feature during blackout hours.
• Commercial Illuminations: All commercial lighting, including illuminated signage, shop hoardings, and display lights, must be turned off during blackout periods. MWAs are requested to oversee and facilitate compliance within their respective jurisdictions.
Emergency Accommodation and Public Welfare Measures
As part of the Contingency Plan for Public Safety, several hotels and dharamshalas have been earmarked for use as emergency rescue and shelter centres, should the need arise.
Additionally, the Chandigarh Administration has issued directives to prevent hoarding and profiteering in essential commodities. All government employees, particularly those engaged in essential services, are directed to remain stationed in Chandigarh, as their services may be requisitioned without prior notice.
Closure Directives:
• All coaching institutions up to Class 12 shall remain closed until further notice.
• On 9th May 2025, all markets and commercial establishments, including malls, bars, hotels, and showrooms, shall remain closed after 7:00 PM, with the sole exception of medical stores, which may operate as usual.
Citizen Engagement and Volunteering Opportunities
• The Hon’ble Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, graciously participated in a blood donation camp held earlier today. Such camps will continue to be organized in the days ahead, and all citizens are encouraged to participate actively in this noble cause.
• An Enrolment and Training Camp for Civil Defence Volunteers shall be conducted on 10th May 2025 at 11:00 AM at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh. Individuals interested in serving as volunteers during emergency situations are urged to attend.
Public Advisory:
Residents are strongly advised to rely exclusively on official communication channels for authentic and timely information:
@chandigarh_admn
@dc_chd
@ssputchandigarh
It is important to note that emergency announcements, including blackout alerts, may be issued on very short notice—ranging from 5 to 10 minutes. Citizens are, therefore, requested to remain alert and act promptly upon receiving such communications.
For any emergency assistance or clarification, please contact the helpline at 112.
Let us, as responsible citizens, stand united in full solidarity with our armed forces and civil authorities during this time of heightened preparedness. Your continued cooperation and vigilance are vital to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
Following the directions of the GOI and instructions of Chandigarh Administration, the Health Department, UT Chandigarh has immediately taken the following steps for managing any kind of Disaster/Emergency in Chandigarh;-
● The Control Room for Disaster Management has been set up at GMSH-16, Chandigarh. A dedicated Nodal Officer for the Control room has been appointed and required staff for handling has been put up on rotational duties.
● The Emergency Departments of GMSH-16 and allied Civil Hospitals have been strengthened with adequate manpower, equipment and required medicines.
● Leaves of all the Staff have been cancelled and rotational duty rosters have been prepared of all the Staffs of the Health Department.
● The Ambulances fleet has been strengthened and have been equipped with the required equipment, manpower and medicines.
● All Medicines which are required to cope up any Disaster have been procured. Detailed inventory of the Equipment, consumables and medicines has been made.
● The Communication Network has been strengthened in the Hospitals of Health Department.
● SOPs of Disaster Management have been revisited and all the staff has been made aware of these SOP especially how to manage during blackouts in the hospital setup .
● The Elective procedures/ surgeries have been reduced however emergency procedures will be done as required.
● The Blood Bank has organised special camps to increase the numbers of blood units in it’s stock for any exigency .
● Coordination among PGIMER, GMCH 32 and pvt hospitals have been established . Meeting with the President and IMA has been done to make aware all the pvt hospitals and medical practitioners.
