Pune: On an otherwise normal day at Pune International Airport, the sound of an emergency announcement pierced through the busy terminal, alerting passengers and staff about an impending earthquake.
Chaos unfolded as airport personnel quickly mobilized, ushering travelers towards designated safety zones, while specialized disaster response teams raced to the scene.
The scene, however, was part of a meticulously planned annual earthquake evacuation drill aimed at assessing the airport’s disaster preparedness.
This year's drill was conducted at Pune airport’s newly inaugurated terminal, simulating the impact of an earthquake to test the facility’s emergency protocols and the efficiency of its disaster response teams.
As the drill commenced, the airport’s staff, security personnel, and response agencies immediately sprang into action. Within minutes of the announcement, passengers were guided to safety by the airport’s ground staff, who seamlessly coordinated with disaster management authorities.
In addition to the swift evacuation, the drill also evaluated the airport's medical readiness. A dedicated team from the health department, prepared to handle any emergency medical situations, was deployed on-site to provide first aid and immediate care, demonstrating the high level of preparedness for real-life crises.
The large-scale exercise saw the participation of key agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF),
the Pune Municipal Corporation, local fire and police departments, and the airport's management. Each agency played a vital role, contributing to the overall success of the drill.
According to Santosh Dhoke, Director of Pune Airport, “The safety and well-being of our passengers and staff are our top priorities. This drill has reaffirmed our preparedness to handle any emergency situation effectively.”
He further emphasized that the exercise had not only validated the existing disaster response plans but also revealed insights into areas where improvements could be made.