With the possibility of a devastating earthquake striking Meghalaya in the next 30, 40, or even 100 years, the question of preparedness remains critical. To assess the state’s readiness not only in the aspect of earthquake but also in other disasters, the Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA), in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, organized a State-Level Mock Exercise and Table-Top Exercise (TTEx) at the State Convention Centre, Shillong. Eleven districts participated online in this crucial disaster preparedness initiative.
Addressing the exercise, Sanjay Goyal, Commissioner & Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management Department, expressed hope that the exercise would provide valuable inputs and experience to enhance the state’s ability to cope with disasters. He emphasized that this is the best time to reassess resources and infrastructure, to ensure they are fully utilized, and to improve the speed and coordination of response efforts in the event of a disaster.
Lt. Gen. Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd), Member, NDMA, emphasized the growing threat of disasters due to climate change and rapid infrastructural development. Hasnain pointed out that as Meghalaya expands its roads, airfields, industries, and economic hubs, the risk of disasters—both natural and industrial—will only intensify.
“Disaster management will soon become a compulsory subject in schools,” Hasnain noted, stressing the need for long-term preparedness.
He also spoke about the significance of such exercises in preparing for potential disasters. He urged officials to review the 10-point agenda available on the NDMA website and emphasized key areas such as community response, the SACHET early warning app, school and hospital safety programs, and the crucial role of communication during disasters. He also stressed the importance of professional understanding in disaster management.
The event also featured online presentations from 11 districts, showcasing their preparedness efforts. The exercise was attended by officials from various departments, reflecting a collective commitment to disaster preparedness and coordination.
The Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA), in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), conducted a State-Level Mock Exercise on Earthquake Disaster at the State Convention Centre in Shillong today.
Smt. M. War Nongbri, Commissioner & Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management Department and Executive Director of MSDMA, opened the session with an introductory speech, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness in the state.
The Table-Top Exercise (TTEx) was designed to trigger critical thinking among stakeholders, pushing for proactive measures in disaster preparedness and response strategies. As the state continues to develop, the need for robust disaster management frameworks becomes more urgent than ever.