India, May 12 -- On May 7, 2025, mock drills across India tested the preparedness of civil defence services-fire, police and health departments-in the face of potential war with Pakistan. In a region like tricity, which has faced both natural and man-made disasters, such drills are an essential part of a comprehensive approach to disaster preparedness. In October 2023, a major fire at PGIMER's Nehru Hospital block had led to the evacuation of 424 patients. The cause: a blaze in a UPS room, which was later linked to the building's lack of fire clearance. Earlier, on July 9, 2023, the tricity recorded its heaviest single-day rainfall at 302.2mm, flooding roads and houses, and leaving neighbourhoods waterlogged for days. In 2022 monsoon, a tree collapse at Carmel Convent School in Chandigarh killed a 16-year-old student and injured several others. In Mohali, a four-storey building came down in December 2024 due to illegal excavation nearby, killing two. Another construction accident claimed a labourer's life in Sector 118 in January this year. These incidents highlight the region's vulnerability. Disasters-whether natural or man-made-strike without warning, and their impact can be devastating: loss of lives, displacement, infrastructure damage and deep-seated panic. Hence, preparedness is key. Strict enforcement of building codes can prevent collapses during construction, fires or earthquakes. Regular cleaning of storm drains will help reduce waterlogging during heavy rainfall. A real-time disaster alert app can warn citizens about impending dangers, such as extreme weather or security threats. The National Building Code 2016 must be strictly enforced to ensure fire safety compliance, particularly in high-rise buildings and industrial belts. Additionally, a dedicated disaster management cell in each city, equipped with stocked emergency supplies, including food, water and medicines, can ensure immediate response. Regular mock drills, in schools, offices, institutions and neighbourhoods will keep citizens aware and ready. A robust civil defence set-up is as crucial. Mohali's fire department has waited over five years for a 90-metre hydraulic ladder, despite a jump in high-rise buildings over the years. Gaps in infrastructure, staff shortage and outdated equipment plague government hospitals and police too, limiting their ability to respond effectively during emergencies. A state-of-the art trauma centre at GMCH, Sector 32, envisioned to provide critical care to victims of road accidents, natural or man-made disasters and other emergencies, has been under construction for five years, missing multiple deadlines, leaving premier PGIMER to pick up the load alone. Mock drills like the one on May 7 are vital, but they must be part of a consistent safety culture. In a rapidly growing region like the tricity, being disaster ready is not a choice - it's a responsibility that demands strict safety enforcement, strong infrastructure, improved emergency systems and coordinated civil defence. Only a holistic approach, coupled with regular public awareness, can effectively minimise disaster impact and protect lives....