Raphael Warjri

The Government of Meghalaya has finalized preparations for a large-scale mock drill across the state aimed at enhancing public awareness and readiness in the event of an aerial attack. Organized by the Civil Defence and Home Guards department, the drill seeks to educate both residents and government personnel on standard safety protocols during such emergencies.

Officials stated that this exercise comes in the wake of the Indian Army's recent Operation Sindoor, a strategic military operation targeting terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and the Pakistan-occupied regions of Jammu & Kashmir. These areas have long been considered operational hubs for launching attacks against India.

Speaking to the media, Joint Director of Civil Defence & Home Guards, MK Sangma, confirmed that the mock drill will begin at 4:00 PM, with a series of alert mechanisms taking place later in the evening. At 6:30 PM, a siren will be sounded to simulate an incoming air raid, followed by a two-minute blackout in key urban areas, including Shillong, Jowai, and Tura. This blackout will be implemented by the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL), which has expressed its limitations in extending the blackout beyond these cities.

Sangma also revealed that siren systems have been installed in seven out of the state’s twelve districts. The remaining five districts are still in the process of being classified and equipped for such alerts.

The drill’s sequence will include three major alert signals: a two-minute siren at 6:28 PM warning of an imminent air raid, a blackout at 6:30 PM lasting for two minutes, and a final one-minute siren at 6:32 PM indicating an "all clear" status. Residents have been urged to switch off inverters and remain indoors during this period for their safety.

Multiple agencies will be involved in the operation. The Indian Air Force will monitor the simulated threat and report directly to the Regional Civil Defence Control Centre (RCDCC), which will then relay alerts to the District Civil Defence Control Centres (DCDCCs). These centers will coordinate with local authorities and wardens stationed in Shillong, Jowai, and Tura.

The Fire and Emergency Services Department is on standby to respond to any fire-related incidents, while the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) of the Civil Defence will be mobilized in case of injuries or evacuations.

Officials emphasized that this is the first phase of the mock drill. A second, more extensive phase is planned, which will see coordinated participation from the police, fire services, PWD, and medical units.

Authorities have appealed to the public to remain calm, follow instructions closely, and treat the mock drill as a vital step toward ensuring collective safety in the event of real emergencies.