Tabletop Exercise Conducted in Tura Ahead of Ganol Dam Mock Drill

Shillong, India Jul 23, 2026 ALN: A Tabletop Exercise on dam safety and emergency preparedness was successfully conducted on Wednesday at the Conference Hall of the Office of the Superintending Engineer, Ganol SHP, MePDCL, Rongkon, Tura, as part of preparations for the Ganol Dam Mock Drill, which is scheduled to be held on Thursday (July 23) at 11:00 AM at the Ganol Dam site. This initiative is a critical component of the broader strategy to ensure the safety and security of communities living in proximity to the dam, especially in light of the increasing climate-related challenges faced by the region.

The importance of such exercises cannot be overstated, as they serve to enhance the readiness and resilience of local communities against potential disasters. The Ganol Dam, like many other infrastructure projects, plays a vital role in the local economy and energy supply, but it also poses risks that require careful management. Dam failures, although rare, can lead to catastrophic flooding and loss of life, particularly in downstream areas. Therefore, proactive measures such as this tabletop exercise are essential for mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of residents.

Organised under the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), West Garo Hills, in coordination with the Ganol Small Hydro Project (SHP), the exercise brought together officials from various government departments, emergency response agencies, Nokmas (village headmen), Sordar, Nokma Secretaries and community leaders from the low-lying villages downstream of the dam, who actively participated and shared their insights on disaster preparedness and emergency response. This collaborative approach is crucial, as it fosters a sense of community ownership and accountability in disaster management efforts.

The programme began with a welcome address by Jude Rangku T. Sangma, MCS, Chief Executive Officer, DDMA, West Garo Hills. His remarks highlighted the significance of community engagement in disaster preparedness initiatives. A technical briefing on dam parameters, trigger levels and emergency scenarios was delivered by Enriques M. Sangma, AEE (Civil), Ganol SHP, who provided participants with essential information regarding the operational aspects of the dam and the potential risks associated with its failure.

Retired Col. K.C. Monappa conducted the technical sessions, covering exercise classification, ground rules, inundation mapping and emergency response planning. These sessions are designed to ensure that all participants understand the framework within which emergency responses will be executed. Inundation mapping, for instance, is a critical tool that helps identify the areas that would be affected in the event of a dam failure, thus allowing for more effective evacuation and resource allocation strategies.

Participants also took part in simulation-based discussions designed to assess preparedness, inter-agency coordination and decision-making during emergency situations. These simulations are invaluable, as they provide a realistic environment for stakeholders to practice their response strategies, identify gaps in their plans, and refine their coordination efforts. The session concluded with a structured debriefing, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Robson Ch. Marak, Superintending Engineer (Civil), Ganol SHP. His acknowledgment of the participants' contributions underscored the collaborative spirit that is essential for effective disaster management.

The Ganol Dam Mock Drill, scheduled for Thursday, will simulate a dam emergency scenario to evaluate the operational readiness of district authorities, emergency services and local communities. The exercise aims to strengthen coordinated response, improve disaster preparedness and ensure timely action in the event of any potential dam-related emergency in West Garo Hills, particularly for the vulnerable settlements located downstream of the dam. This mock drill is not just a procedural formality; it is a critical exercise that will test the actual response capabilities of all involved parties.

In the context of increasing climate variability and extreme weather events, the need for robust disaster preparedness measures has never been more pressing. The region of West Garo Hills, with its unique geographical features and socio-economic context, faces various challenges that can exacerbate the risks associated with dam operations. Heavy rainfall, landslides, and other natural disasters can significantly impact the integrity of dams and the safety of surrounding communities.

Moreover, the integration of local knowledge and practices into formal disaster management frameworks is essential for creating a more resilient community. Local leaders and community members often possess a wealth of information regarding the unique challenges and risks their communities face, making their involvement in such exercises crucial. By including these stakeholders, the DDMA and other organizing bodies can ensure that the emergency response plans are not only comprehensive but also culturally appropriate and effective.

As the Ganol Dam Mock Drill approaches, the anticipation among participants and community members is palpable. The outcomes of this drill will likely influence future disaster management strategies and policies, not only in West Garo Hills but also in other regions facing similar challenges. It serves as a reminder that preparedness is an ongoing process that requires continuous engagement, training, and adaptation to new risks.

In conclusion, the Tabletop Exercise conducted in Tura represents a significant step forward in enhancing the safety and preparedness of communities living near the Ganol Dam. It exemplifies a proactive approach to disaster management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government agencies, local leaders, and community members. As the mock drill unfolds, all eyes will be on the effectiveness of the responses and the lessons learned, which will undoubtedly shape the future of disaster preparedness in the region.