Officials said the CM stressed on civil defence preparedness, identification of safe shelters, and stockpiling of water, food, and other essentials. (File photo)
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday ordered the activation of evacuation plans for villages located in the state’s border districts.
The order came during a high-level meeting in Gandhinagar to review the state’s preparedness amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reviewed the situation with CM Patel, focusing particularly on the border areas.
Sharing an update on X, the CM posted: “The Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with me and obtained details of Gujarat’s preparedness as a border state and the advance planning undertaken by the state government in the current situation of tension on the border and provided necessary guidance in this regard. The Prime Minister also obtained details about the adequate steps taken by the state government for the safety and security of citizens, especially in sensitive districts like Kachchh, Banaskantha, Patan, Jamnagar, which are bordered by Pakistan.”
During the meeting, the CM instructed all district control rooms and emergency operation centres to remain operational 24/7. He emphasised the importance of exploring alternative communication channels, such as hotlines and satellite phones, to maintain connectivity during emergencies.
Officials said the CM stressed civil defence preparedness, identification of safe shelters, and stockpiling of water, food, and other essentials.
With Gujarat’s sea, land, and air borders on high alert, the CM also held a video conference with local administrations, police, and senior district officials to assess security measures in place.
Earlier in the day, the CM visited the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) in Gandhinagar. Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi and Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi were present for the review of the overall state and border situation.
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The Chief Minister advised district officials to ensure adequate supplies of essential items, including fuel (petrol and diesel), to prevent shortages.
“Additionally, the CM instructed the (state) Health and Transport departments to be fully prepared with necessary arrangements and personnel to address any situation,” said an official statement from the state government.
He also directed district heads to identify sensitive areas and assess readiness for issuing alerts and mobilising responses. A public awareness campaign was recommended to curb panic, dispel false fears, and prevent the spread of rumours.
Officials added that residents were advised to follow official social media channels for verified updates. The CM further instructed that any reports of suspicious activities, objects, or individuals in border areas should be acted on immediately.
Ritu Sharma is an Assistant Editor with The Indian Express' Gujarat bureau, an editorial position that reflects her experience and Authority in regional journalism. With over a decade of concentrated reporting experience, she is a highly Trustworthy and specialized journalist, especially noted for her Expertise in the education sector across Gujarat and previously Chandigarh.
Expertise
Primary Authority (Education): With over ten years of dedicated reporting on education in both Gujarat and Chandigarh, Ritu Sharma is a foremost authority on educational policy, institutional governance, and ground realities from "KG to PG." Her coverage includes:
Higher Education: In-depth scrutiny of top institutions like IIM-Ahmedabad (controversies over demolition/restoration of heritage architecture), IIT-Bombay (caste discrimination issues), and new initiatives like international branch campuses in GIFT City.
Schooling & Policy: Detailed coverage of government schemes (Gyan Sadhana School Voucher Scheme), the implementation and impact of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, teacher recruitment issues, and the impact of national policies like the NEP.
Student Welfare: Reporting on critical issues such as suicide allegations due to caste discrimination, and the challenges faced by students (e.g., non-delivery of NAMO tablets). ... Read More
