A comprehensive Table Top Exercise on disaster preparedness was conducted in Leh under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal on August 19. The exercise aimed at enhancing inter-agency coordination and strengthening response mechanisms for natural disasters in the region.

The session was attended by Administrative Secretary, Disaster Management, Shashanka Ala; Deputy Commissioner Leh, Romil Singh Donk; SSP Leh, Shruti Arora; and other senior district officers.

Key participants included Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Sudhir Bahl; Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain, Member NDMA; and Lt. Gen. Hitesh Bhalla, GOC 14 Corps.

The exercise simulated multiple disaster scenarios—such as earthquakes and flash floods—to evaluate the readiness and coordination of civil and military agencies in Ladakh’s unique and challenging terrain.

The UT Disaster Response Force (UT-DRF) presented Ladakh’s preparedness levels and response strategies, outlining the region’s vulnerability as a high seismic zone with increasing risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and cloudburst-induced flash floods.

Sonam Lotus, Director, IMD, gave a detailed presentation on early warning systems and forecasting mechanisms, stressing the importance of timely alerts and the challenges posed by Ladakh’s complex topography.

Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain, Member NDMA, underscored the need for regular mock drills to enhance preparedness across all levels, while Lt. Gen. Hitesh Bhalla, GOC 14 Corps, highlighted Ladakh’s vulnerability to extreme weather hazards and the importance of proactive mitigation.

Addressing the participants, Chief Secretary Dr. Kotwal emphasized synergy among stakeholders for timely and effective response. He commended the collaborative efforts of the armed forces and civil administration in safeguarding the region.

As part of the exercise, Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Sudhir Bahl, Consultant NDMA, delivered a presentation on earthquake hazards, multi-sector preparedness, and structured response strategies, focusing on immediate action plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

The deliberations also stressed the critical role of communities as first responders, the need for robust communication systems, adequate machinery and medical facilities, and effective coordination through the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

The DDMA of Leh and Kargil shared plans for a mock drill scheduled on August 21–22 in both districts.

The exercise was attended by senior officials from NDMA, NDRF, armed forces, UT Administration, district officers of Leh and Kargil, security agencies including ITBP and CISF, civil defence volunteers, and officers from key departments. Officials from Kargil, including the Deputy Commissioner, ADCs, SDMs, and Tehsildars, joined virtually.