Goa conducted a full state-level mock drill on April 25, 2025, simulating the impact of a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm along its coastline. This was part of a major disaster preparedness initiative led by the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The exercise aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of disaster response mechanisms, review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and District Disaster Management Plans, and strengthen inter-agency coordination ahead of the monsoon season.
Senior officials, including Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Revenue) and SDMA Chairperson Sandip Jacques, IAS, and the district collectors, monitored the operations from Emergency Operation Centres in Porvorim and Margao.
The mock drill was carried out simultaneously across North and South Goa, based on a scenario triggered by a special IMD bulletin forecasting cyclone landfall between Arambol and Betul. Key locations included beaches, ferry wharfs, industrial estates, ports, and airports, where evacuation, rescue, and relief operations were tested. The drill involved coordinated efforts from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Police, Fire Services, Health Department, Drishti Lifesaving, Indian Coast Guard, Navy, and trained community volunteers.