Baramulla: The District Disaster Management Authority Baramulla on Thursday announced that an avalanche disaster preparedness exercise will be conducted at Gulmarg on Saturday, February 7, 2026, as part of measures to strengthen disaster response mechanisms.
According to a public advisory issued by the Office of the Chairman DDMA and Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, the mock exercise will be held from 3 pm to 5 pm. Authorities have advised the general public not to panic, clarifying that sirens, movement of emergency vehicles and deployment of response teams during the period will be part of the exercise only.
The advisory said residents, tourists, hoteliers, shopkeepers, ski operators and visitors are requested to cooperate with authorities and avoid spreading rumours. People have been advised to restrict unnecessary movement in and around the identified exercise area during the scheduled time.
Authorities have also directed that all instructions issued by the police, SDRF, army or civil administration during the drill must be strictly followed. The public has been cautioned against obstructing emergency responders or attempting to film or enter the exercise zone without authorisation.
Tourists have been advised to remain calm and seek clarification from local authorities or hotel management if required. The exercise, officials said, is being conducted in the interest of public safety to ensure better coordination and preparedness during real disaster situations. (KNT)
