Monsoon disaster response: TGICCC holds mock drill of building collapse in Secunderabad

Hyderabad: The Telangana Government Integrated Command and Control Centre (TGICCC) on Wednesday conducted a large-scale mock drill simulating a building collapse in Secunderabad to strengthen monsoon preparedness and disaster response capabilities among the public.

The exercise brought together multiple government agencies to evaluate real-time coordination and emergency response.

The simulation began at 3 pm, when an officer stationed at the Book ‘N’ More Library and Activity Centre in Tukaramgate Police Station limits placed a mock distress call to Dial-112, reporting a building collapse that ‘resulted’ in two fatalities and injuries to 15 individuals.

Here’s how a mock drill is conducted

Within minutes, the TGICCC alerted various departments, triggering a multi-agency response. Emergency services including 108 ambulances, Law & Order and Traffic Police, were the first to reach the scene within 10 to 15 minutes.

The area was cordoned off and traffic diverted to clear access for incoming rescue teams. Within 30 minutes, specialised units from the DRF, NDRF, SDRF, Fire Services, and officials from departments like GHMC, TGSPDCL, Revenue, HMWS&SB, and Health had reached the site and actively engaged in coordinated rescue and relief operations.

The exercise was closely monitored by senior officers and department heads, ensuring adherence to protocols and effective communication between agencies. Officers from TGICCC and the Multi-Agency Operations Centre (MAOC) documented the event in real time.

Review of mock drill

Following the drill, a comprehensive review meeting was held at the TGICCC War Room. Officials analysed response timelines, identified operational strengths, and discussed areas that require improvement. Key insights from the exercise will inform updates to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), training programs, and disaster management strategies going forward.