Pune: Mock Drill Mocks Its Purpose? PCMC Administration Casual, Civilians Watch Like Entertainment

Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 7th May 2025: Under the orders of the central government and Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) conducted a mock drill aimed at national security amidst a war-like scenario. While PCMC claims it was successful, on-ground visuals told a different story.

At 4 PM, as scheduled, simulated bomb blasts and gunfire rang out. But instead of panic or urgency, the situation appeared casual. Individuals supposedly ‘stuck’ in a critical emergency were seen emerging laughing. Curious onlookers gathered around the PCMC Administrative Building, some treating the drill as entertainment—clicking selfies and capturing videos.

Though the exercise was meant to simulate a crisis, the atmosphere often felt like a spectacle. Fire Brigade officials were the only ones visibly serious about their roles. Others, including some from the administration, were more focused on documenting the event than managing the drill.

Public access was poorly controlled. Outsiders entered the PCMC premises freely to shoot videos for social media. Compounding this, the drill was announced a day in advance, leaving all emergency departments on standby, something unlikely in a real crisis.

Residents expressed concerns, saying the drill was limited to the PCMC building. The residential area behind and the commercial complex in front were excluded entirely. “The administration may be prepared, but we residents are not,” one local said.

While the PCMC hailed the drill as a success, public reactions were mixed.