Shillong, Feb 6: A mock exercise on earthquake disaster preparedness is being conducted in Shillong to strengthen coordination and response mechanisms among disaster management agencies.
The ‘Table Top Exercise’ was held here today and the meeting was led by Maj Gen (retd) Sudhir Bahl, who discussed the necessary steps to be taken in the event of an earthquake in the state.
The exercise is being organised by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA) and the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs). Officials from all government departments at both the state and district levels participated in the programme.
The exercise is being conducted in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs with the objective of enhancing preparedness, inter-agency coordination and response capabilities in the event of a major earthquake.
Meanwhile, the MSDMA, DDMA and NDMA will conduct a full-scale drill in the Mawphlang area on February 9.
Several locations were listed for the exercise – JNV Mawphlang, PHE Electrical Division office, Mawphlang GSWS Dam, Mawngap market, Kurbah petrol pump, Mawkohmon village and Mawphlang CHC. Facilities will also be set up at the PWD Mawphlang Division office, Seng Khasi Secondary School in Marbisu and Mawphlang Secondary School.
The exercise will simulate a disaster scenario and assess the effectiveness of standard operating procedures, communication systems, and emergency response actions among various stakeholders. The drill aims to strengthen readiness at the state and district levels and improve coordination with national agencies in managing large-scale emergencies.
Members of the public in and around the Mawphlang area are informed that the exercise is only a mock drill and not an actual emergency. Citizens are requested to remain calm and extend cooperation to the authorities during the conduct of the exercise. The outcome of the mock exercise will help authorities identify gaps, refine response strategies and further strengthen disaster management preparedness across the region.
