Mock Plane Crash Drill Conducted Near Gaggal Airport to Test Emergency Preparedness
A large-scale mock drill simulating a plane crash was conducted near Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala today to assess the readiness and coordination of emergency response agencies. The exercise, overseen by Kangra Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Ishant Jaswal, aimed to demonstrate how lives can be saved through rapid and coordinated action in the event of an aviation disaster.
Arvind Sharma
Jun 28, 2025 08:26
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Dharamshala, June 28, 2025: A large-scale mock drill simulating a plane crash was conducted near Gaggal Airport in Dharamshala today to assess the readiness and coordination of emergency response agencies. The exercise, overseen by Kangra Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Ishant Jaswal, aimed to demonstrate how lives can be saved through rapid and coordinated action in the event of an aviation disaster.
The scenario involved a simulated crash of a flight arriving from Delhi during landing. The drill showcased a swift multi-agency response, including search and rescue operations, evacuation of passengers, provision of medical aid, and coordination among departments.
The drill was carried out with active participation from key agencies and institutions such as: Airport Fire Services, Airport Security Unit, Airlines, Airport Volunteers, District Fire Team, Local Hospitals including Fortis and City Care, Nearby Villagers , Aapda Mitra volunteers, Himachal Pradesh Police and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)
In addition to SDM Ishant Jaswal, several senior officials played critical roles during the exercise, including Dhirendra Singh- Airport Director, Ankit Sharma, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Kangra, Roshan Lal, Airport Fire Incharge, Robin, Disaster Management Officer, Dharamshala and Tehsildar Kangra
Immediately after the mock crash report was issued, the Air Traffic Control (ATC) declared a full emergency, alerting all concerned departments. Fire tenders, ambulances, and disaster management teams rushed to the scene. Injured “passengers” were given first aid and transported to various hospitals, while mock casualties were sent for DNA profiling and identification.
SDM Ishant Jaswal emphasized that the main objective of the mock drill was to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and ensure a rapid and efficient response in real-life emergencies. He also urged the public to stay alert and informed about safety protocols during such incidents.
The exercise proved vital in identifying gaps and enhancing operational efficiency in disaster response mechanisms, reaffirming the district administration’s commitment to public safety.
