Maharashtra govt sets up war rooms in districts amid rising India-Pak tensions

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government is setting up ‘war rooms’ in all districts of the state to enhance coordination and speed up response in the wake of emerging geopolitical situations because of the ongoing Operation Sindoor.

Meanwhile, security in the financial capital of Mumbai was beefed up besides upgrading the coastal security in view of the situation while the disaster management apparatus has been kept in readiness.

To review the situation, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is also the state’s Home Minister, held a high-level meeting at Varsha bungalow, his official residence at the Malabar Hill here.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who is the state Urban Development Minister too was present at the meeting.

“In view of the current tensions between India and Pakistan, the Maharashtra Government is on alert mode,” Fadnavis said after the meeting.

“At the meeting, we have directed mock drills in every district to prepare for emergencies. For this a dedicated ‘war room’ would be set up,” he added.

Fadnavis also asked the administration and police to coordinate with hospitals to ensure essential services continue during blackouts. “Use dark curtains or tinted glass to completely block external light,” he said.

“For public awareness and information, awareness videos will be made explaining blackouts and related safety measures; which will be shared widely with students and citizens,” he said.

Besides, he asked the government officials to be thoroughly informed about the Union War Book.

"Cyber cells have been asked to monitor social media, identify and act against handles aiding Pakistan or spreading false information,” he said.

The CM assured that emergency funds will be provided to the district collectors for immediate purchases and important proposals must be cleared within an hour.

The government has asked district administration to hold meetings with all Mumbai metropolitan region municipal bodies and promote blackout awareness in housing societies.

“Police should be extra alert; increase combing operations and patrols due to possible anti-national activities,” he said.

The government also said that filming or sharing military preparedness activities on social media is a punishable offence.

The government has authorised coastal districts to rent fishing trawlers if needed to strengthen coastal security.

The leaves of senior officers stands cancelled - particularly from the Health, Disaster Management, and similar critical department.