Andhra Pradesh’s Elite Anti-Terror Force Ramps Up Preparedness at Historic Temple
In a crucial exercise to bolster security preparedness, the Organisation for Counter Terrorist Operations (OCTOPUS) unit of the Andhra Pradesh police recently conducted an extensive mock drill at the revered Mahanandeeswara Temple in Mahanandi. The late Sunday night operation, which stretched into the early hours, was designed to sharpen the response mechanisms of various local government departments and agencies.
The primary objective of this realistic simulation was to train personnel in effectively managing and reacting to diverse emergency scenarios, including potential terror attacks, bomb threats, or other critical incidents. Key participants included the local police department, temple management, and representatives from revenue, panchayat, fire, medical & health, and electricity departments. Each agency received detailed instructions on how to coordinate seamlessly and respond swiftly when faced with such high-pressure situations.
Prior to the actual drill, the OCTOPUS team, led by Deputy Superintendents of Police P. Jaggu Naidu and I. Tirupati Rao, facilitated a comprehensive coordination meeting. This session brought together officials from the temple, police, and other relevant departments, laying the groundwork for the successful execution of the mock exercise. Both DSPs were actively involved in both the preparatory meeting and the subsequent drill.
Every participating department was meticulously briefed on their specific roles and responsibilities during an emergency. The drill itself commenced at 9 p.m. and concluded around 1:30 a.m., providing a practical, hands-on experience in emergency response and inter-agency cooperation.