In a significant step towards enhancing disaster management preparedness, DC Bathinda, Mr. Showkat Ahmad Parray, led an Offsite Emergency Response Mock Drill near HMEL Township on Refinery Road on December 17, 2024. The scenario simulated a petrol tanker overturning near the HP petrol pump, causing a leak and fire. Teams, including NDRF, HMEL Fire & Safety, police, and medical personnel, executed rescue operations, fire control, and tanker restoration. The drill tested inter-agency coordination during a simulated vapor cloud explosion. DC Mr. Showkat Ahmad Parray commended the operation's success, while Deputy Director-Factories Mr. Vishal Singla emphasized the importance of annual drills for Bathinda’s nine hazardous industries. Representatives from major local industries, including NFL, IOCL, and thermal plants, participated. A review meeting acknowledged the effective communication and coordination, underscoring the need for regular drills to ensure disaster preparedness and safeguard lives, property, and the environment.
