The Directorate of Civil Defence and Home Guards of Meghalaya announced plans for a mock Air Raid Precaution exercise scheduled for 4:00 PM in the city.

Speaking to the Reporter Joint Director of Civil Defence and Joint Commandant General of Home Guards, Shri M.K. Sangma, informed the media that due to the short notice, the drill would be limited to select areas. A more comprehensive and coordinated exercise involving the police, health department, Public Works Department (PWD), and local residents is planned for a later date to enhance preparedness.

During the exercise, sirens will sound at 6:30 PM, followed by a two-minute blackout. Citizens are requested to switch off their lights during this period. Vehicular traffic shall continue as usual with headlights on, while pedestrians and those outdoors are advised to seek immediate cover. Individuals using solar-powered lights are also advised to switch them off at the sound of the siren. 

Shri Sangma emphasized the challenges in organizing such drills, noting that the country has not faced a war-like situation in a long time, leading to a general lapse in public awareness of emergency protocols. This mock drill aims to prepare security forces and emergency services for potential crises.