Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed state authorities to implement a series of comprehensive security measures aimed at safeguarding critical urban areas, especially Mumbai and Pune.
The state’s swift and proactive response includes heightened vigilance, public awareness campaigns, and the strategic use of infrastructure for emergency preparedness. At a high-level meeting convened by Fadnavis at his official residence, officials from the home department, police force, intelligence agencies, and the administration discussed and reviewed security protocols and action plans. The meeting, held to assess potential threats posed by sleeper cells and other extremist activities, saw key figures including the acting chief secretary, DGP, and police commissioners in attendance.
One of the primary directives from the meeting was to ensure that the newly operational Metro Line 3, which connects Aarey and Worli, is ready for use as an emergency evacuation route in the event of a terror attack. Fadnavis directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to ensure the metro line is accessible for quick evacuation operations, prioritising passenger safety and operational continuity during a crisis. “While Mumbai remains a vital economic hub, it is also a potential target due to the concentration of critical infrastructure,” said a government source. This includes the Reserve Bank of India, Bombay Stock Exchange, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port, among other significant installations.
The government has been particularly concerned about sleeper cells, which could become active in the wake of the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. Fadnavis has ordered intensified action against these sleeper cells, particularly in areas with a history of extremist activity, including Jogeshwari, Mumbra, Malegaon, and other suburbs of Mumbai. Under Fadnavis’ leadership, the state police have been instructed to ramp up surveillance, conduct surprise inspections, and increase patrols in vulnerable areas. “The police force has been put on high alert to prevent any anti-national or terrorist activities,” stated a senior official from the home department. The chief minister also instructed local law enforcement to maintain stringent checks and blockade routes as a preventive measure.
In a bid to engage the public in the preparedness process, Fadnavis has mandated that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) conduct a series of workshops and mock drills across cooperative housing societies in Mumbai. These initiatives will focus on educating residents on how to respond during emergencies, including blackouts, evacuations, and the proper handling of critical situations. “The workshops will provide practical guidance to citizens on how to stay safe and act efficiently during a crisis,” explained an official involved in the planning. To further bolster these efforts, Fadnavis has also called for detailed cyber audits of critical infrastructure. With over 250 vital installations across India, more than 40 are located in Maharashtra, and the chief minister emphasized the importance of securing these assets from potential cyber attacks. The RBI, BSE, and other high-value entities have their own security protocols in place, but the state police may be called upon to provide additional security if necessary.
In addition to these security measures, the state administration is setting up a reliable system for disseminating accurate and verified information to the public. This will serve to counter misinformation and prevent panic, ensuring that citizens remain informed and calm in the face of any potential crisis. As part of this initiative, the government will be monitoring social media for any pro-Pakistan content, taking action against those spreading false narratives or harmful information. Fadnavis has also given the green light for the state’s health department to prepare for emergencies by ensuring hospitals are stocked with necessary medical supplies and equipped with alternative power sources in the event of blackouts. This preparation is essential to ensure the continuous functioning of healthcare services, which could be disrupted during times of heightened security concerns.
Reflecting on the state’s comprehensive approach, Fadnavis stated, “It is essential that we stay ahead of potential threats and ensure that every aspect of Mumbai and Maharashtra’s infrastructure is ready for emergencies. We are committed to ensuring the safety of all residents.” The state is also coordinating with central agencies and the armed forces, planning future meetings to discuss further measures and reinforce security protocols. “We are in continuous contact with national agencies to ensure that we are prepared for any eventuality,” said an official.
Fadnavis’ leadership underscores Maharashtra’s commitment to ensuring that the state’s infrastructure, citizens, and key institutions are shielded from potential threats. By combining community engagement, advanced surveillance, emergency preparedness, and cyber security, the state is reinforcing its resilience in the face of ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. These decisive actions are not just about responding to immediate threats but also about fostering a sense of collective security within the city. Fadnavis’ comprehensive strategy demonstrates a holistic approach to safeguarding Mumbai’s future, ensuring the city remains resilient, even in the face of global tensions.
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