To strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms against natural disasters, especially earthquakes, the Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA), District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), and the Revenue & Disaster Management Department, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), conducted a State Level Mock Drill Exercise on Earthquake Disaster on Monday at two locations in Ri Bhoi District.
The mock drill was first conducted at Shillong Airport, Umroi and later at M/s Umiam Distillation Pvt. Limited, EPIP, Byrnihat. As per the exercise scenario, a major earthquake measuring 8.2 magnitude struck Shillong, which also affected the two locations in Ri Bhoi District. The drill simulated situations involving injured civilians requiring immediate medical attention, while also highlighting how several individuals escaped injuries due to the presence of effective safety and disaster preparedness measures, police and fire and emergency service personnel were busy in the rescue operations for the stranded civilians.
The mock drill witnessed the participation of Assistant Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, A. Marthong, along with senior officials from the Police Department, Health Department, Fire & Emergency Services, Bhoirymbong C&RD Block, staff of Shillong Airport, Umroi and other concerned officials.