City mock drill exposes crucial loopholes

Chaos marked the mock drill held across Delhi on Tuesday to test the medical response time in the event of an earthquake, fire and bomb blasts.

Chaos marked the mock drill held across Delhi on Tuesday to test the medical response time in the event of an earthquake, fire and bomb blasts.

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Though various agencies — police, fire services, hospitals, paramedics and civil defence volunteers — were quick to respond, lack of coordination at some places was evident.

The drill, held during 11.30am-1.30pm, was conducted at 33 locations, including schools, markets and cinema halls. More than 4,800 people participated and 555 vehicles were used in the drill. All major government and private hospitals also took part.

“More ambulances are needed to handle the injured, and better communication is required between agencies,” Dr George P Abraham, president, Indian Institute of Emergency Medical Services, said.