In a move aimed at strengthening security preparedness at the Tirumala hill shrine in Andhra Pradesh, the Organization for Counter Terrorist Operations (OCTOPUS) conducted a mock anti-terror drill on Wednesday to demonstrate the protocols to be followed in the event of a terrorist infiltration.
The exercise was carried out in coordination with the police, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Vigilance Department, the fire department, and other allied agencies.
The mock drill focused on emergency response measures, evacuation
procedures, and threat containment strategies in high-security areas frequented by devotees.
Around 50 OCTOPUS officers and security personnel participated in the drill. Temporary security restrictions were imposed in the vicinity of Venkatadri Nilayam during the exercise to facilitate the smooth conduct of the operation.
Officials said such mock drills are conducted regularly across Tirumala and Tirupati to assess preparedness, improve inter-agency coordination, and ensure the safety and security of pilgrims visiting the temple town.