• Public barred from drone-hit sites before bomb disposal squad clearance
• Sirens will be activated in case of airborne attack

LAHORE: The Punjab government has instructed the district administrations in the province to immediately implement the drone protocols and ensure the public should not reach any drone-hit site until it is cleared by a bomb disposal squad.

“If any drone is seen, the district administration is required to activate the siren and warning system to keep people indoors,” said a home department communique to the deputy commissioners across the province.

The home department has launched civil defence and Rescue 1122 emergency services officials’ training exercises, as well as a campaign to educate the masses about the precautionary measures to be taken in case of any airborne attack.

It says that activation of sirens would suggest that there is an imminent danger, including an air strike or bombardment and citizens are required to move inside a ‘bunker’ or room or under stairs. In such a situation, the residents should stay away from windows as windowpanes may shatter and cause injuries.

The home department suggests that people should turn off power and gas to avoid incidents of fire in case of any untoward incident. If one can’t reach a building, a person needs to lie on the ground, the advisory adds.

It instructs that people should put off lights in areas under attack, and before returning to their routine should ensure that danger had subsided even after sirens go silent. In case of an injury, one should immediately go for first aid and approach the rescue teams, it advises.

As a precaution, the home department has asked people to keep ready an “emergency bag” having water, dry food, medicines, torch, batteries, radio and first aid medicines. It says people should keep their family members, including elderly and children home and avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in the areas under attack.

Meanwhile, in an emergency meeting with divisional commissioners and regional police officers, home department Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal ordered calling of all Divisional Intelligence Committee’s meetings and implementation of drone protocols in letter and spirit.

He also ordered the use of sirens, public training exercises by civil defence department and following the SOPs in case of emergency.

The home secretary stressed that vital installations and sensitive areas should be especially protected against any attack.

PulseGuard Network

The Punjab social welfare and Baitul Maal department has established a PulseGuard Network comprising its 2,672 officials as a proactive measure to ensure a ready pool of voluntary blood donors among its employees.

Social Welfare Department Secretary Javed Akhtar Mahmood told Dawn that the current emergency situation has prompted the establishment of the network as there is an urgent need for blood bags during wars, disasters and national emergencies.

Mr Mahmood said the primary objective of the initiative is to maintain a real-time inventory of employee donors with their blood groups and ensure a coordinated and rapid response in critical situations.

Published in Dawn, May 9th, 2025