Shillong, Oct 12: A state-level mock exercise conducted by the Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority on Thursday led to extensive traffic delays, leaving many struggling to reach their destinations on time.
The Deputy Commissioner & Chairperson (DDMA) of East Khasi Hills, Shillong, conducted a mock drill on Thursday simulating the 1897 earthquake, from 9 am onwards. This exercise involved district officials, armed forces, paramilitary forces, NDRF, SDRF, police, fire and emergency services, NGOs, hospitals, schools, colleges, community members, and volunteers from various organizations.
A representative from the National Disaster Management Authority was also present for the drill.
However, citizens shared videos showing a long line of vehicles stuck at Pynthor, as the mock drill took place at Polo. One frustrated contributor emphasised the importance of people being able to reach work, offices, schools, and colleges in a timely manner. Adding a touch of humour, she wrote, “Mock Drilled us all instead.”
In East Khasi Hills district, identified locations for the affected sites included Polo, the road from Polo towards Wahingdoh, Polo Supermarket (SMB), shops in and around the Polo area, Hotel Polo towers, SBI building, Polo and MeCEL, Lumjingshai, Samkhamti petrol Pump at Urkaliar, Female Health Worker Training School, School of Nursing at TTC, Ganesh Das Govt MCH, St Xavier School at Polo, Pynthorumkhrah Golflink, Shillong Secondary School, Forest Colony, and Civil Hospital School of Nursing.
While the East Khasi Hills District Administration did not provide alternative routes, citizens were advised not to panic and to cooperate with the arrangements made by the government, planning their travel accordingly to avoid traffic delays.
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