Padur, Udupi: In a high-intensity disaster preparedness initiative, a mock drill simulating a drone-triggered bomb attack was successfully carried out at the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) facility in Padur, Kapu taluk, Udupi.
The large-scale simulation, named ‘Operation Abhyas’, began around 4:00 pm on Sunday. A staged explosion mimicking a drone bomb strike triggered visible flames both inside and outside the ISPRL compound. Sirens blared soon after, and emergency alerts were sent to the district administration and law enforcement.
Rapid emergency response ensued. ISPRL’s internal fire crew doused interior flames, while Adani Group’s fire unit tackled the blaze outside, extinguishing it within minutes. Fire engines from Karkala and teams from Kapu police station joined promptly, initiating crowd control and emergency protocols.
Approximately 35 personnel sustained simulated injuries. They were evacuated safely, and the Shirva Primary Health Centre team conducted triage at the site. Ambulances rushed 12 people to Kapu hospital, and 20 to Shirva CHC. One individual, whose identity remains unclear, was shifted to the ICU.
Bomb disposal squads with sniffer dogs scanned for live explosives, while a Quick Reaction Force secured the premises. A second mock drone attack was staged near the facility gate, causing minor damage and testing drone neutralization responses.
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) from Mangaluru arrived within 40 minutes, aiding in medical response and site clearance. Two mock fatalities were reported.
Nearby residents were temporarily shifted to relief centers by the Revenue Department. The drill wrapped up by 5:33 pm, with over 270 personnel from multiple departments, including Police, SDRF, Coastal Security, RTO, MESCOM, and Home Guards, participating.
Deputy Commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari lauded the coordinated response, emphasizing the drill’s importance in preparing for man-made and natural calamities. She confirmed that more such drills will follow across the district.
📞 For real emergencies:
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Disaster Helpline: 0820-2574802 / 1077
Police Control Room: 112 / 0820-2526444
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