Amid heightened tensions along the India-Pakistan border, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis convened a high-level security review meeting in Mumbai on Friday, bringing together senior officials from the state police, intelligence, disaster management and civic administration. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was also present as the government outlined a detailed action plan to bolster the state’s preparedness for any possible emergency.
The meeting resulted in a series of decisive measures aimed at ensuring swift and coordinated responses across departments. One of the key instructions was the establishment of dedicated “war rooms” in every district. These control centres will serve as hubs for real-time crisis management and inter-agency coordination. Full-scale mock drills have also been mandated statewide, designed to simulate emergency scenarios, with a particular focus on blackout operations. Recognising the critical role of healthcare during such events, Fadnavis directed that hospitals be equipped with backup power systems and infrastructure that can prevent any outward light during blackouts, such as dark curtains or tinted windows.
To enhance public readiness, the CM called for an extensive awareness campaign. Educational videos detailing blackout procedures and citizen responsibilities during emergencies will be shared widely among students and the general public. Government departments will also be briefed on the Centre’s “Union War Book,” which outlines key wartime administrative protocols, to ensure consistency in understanding and execution. Additionally, local municipal bodies, particularly in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, have been asked to engage with housing societies to reinforce grassroots-level preparedness.
Cybersecurity has been highlighted as a top priority. District cyber cells were directed to intensify social media monitoring to counter misinformation and hostile narratives, with legal action ordered against offenders. A cyber audit of key infrastructure, especially power networks, has also been launched to guard against digital threats.
To boost emergency response, Fadnavis ordered immediate release of funds to district collectors for urgent procurement of supplies and services and promised rapid approval of key security proposals. Filming of defence activities was banned.
Coastal security was tightened, with fishing trawlers authorised for surveillance if needed. A new citizen communication system will be introduced to provide citizens with timely and verified updates in the event of an emergency. the heads of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard based in Mumbai will be invited to the next state-level review via video conferencing.
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy held a crucial meeting with the fishermen from Mumbai and advised them not to go for fishing in sensitive areas. This was necessary as the 'shoot to kill' instructions have been issued if they enter the area designated by the Navy. Further, a survey of fishing boats in Mumbai will be conducted, and their data will be collected with the help of an app.
Key Directives
Full-scale mock drills and war rooms
Blackout preparedness
Backup power systems for hospitals
Public awareness
Union War Book training
Cyber monitoring
Emergency funds
Role of municipal bodies and housing societies
Heightened security vigilance
Ban on defence videography
Coastal security enhancements
Cyber infrastructure audit
Inter-agency coordination
Cancellation of leave for senior officers
Indian Navy held a crucial meeting with the fishermen from Mumbai and advised them not to go for fishing in sensitive areas
Leaves cancelled
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the cancellation of leave for all senior officials holding key positions in the state, particularly in departments such as health and disaster management. helping the enemy", it said.
