Taking a firm decision to enhance the preparedness of the state for emergencies, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed all district and local governments to immediately establish war rooms. This order has come at a time when there has been growing military tension between India and Pakistan, forcing state officials to put high-alert measures into place.
In a late-night emergency meeting convened at his official residence, Varsha, Chief Minister and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and senior officials announced a string of emergency measures to be adopted across the state.
Some of the important highlights of the instructions are:
Mock drills in all 36 districts, in accordance with the guidelines of the central government's "War Book".
Cyber monitoring to block the transmission of false information or any online action that might threaten national security.
Hospitals directed to be ready for blackout situations, including backup power generation and blackout curtains to preserve secrecy of operations.
Informational campaigns to educate the public on responding in case of emergencies, such as pictorial instructions on blackout operations.
Heightened coastal security, with coastal guards and fishing trawlers deployed to cover the western coastline.
Emergency funding to municipal governments to facilitate speedy procurement of required equipment and supplies.
Also, citizens have been cautioned not to upload videos or images of movement of troops or sensitive areas. Offenders can be prosecuted under national security laws.These measures are meant to ensure that Maharashtra is well-equipped to face any situation in the changing national security scenario.
