A total of 44,209 candidates will appear for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Preliminary Examination across 100 examination centres in Hyderabad on May 24, with authorities making elaborate arrangements to ensure it is conducted peacefully, transparently and in accordance with UPSC guidelines.

In-charge Hyderabad District Collector C. Narayana Reddy, during a review meeting on Thursday, directed officials to ensure foolproof arrangements at all centres. Venue supervisors, coordinators, route officers and other appointed officials attended the meeting.

The Collector said that stringent measures had been put in place for the smooth conduct of the examination and instructed officials to work with commitment and responsibility. “Basic facilities had already been arranged at all examination centres, including drinking water, clean toilets, ventilation and emergency medical support, especially in view of the prevailing summer conditions,” he said.

Paper-I of the examination will be conducted from 9.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m., while Paper-II will be held from 2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. As per UPSC regulations, the gates of examination centres will be closed 30 minutes before the commencement of each session.

Candidates without e-Admit Cards would not be allowed inside the examination centres. Jammers have been installed at every examination centre as part of security arrangements. The Collector further informed that no storage rooms would be provided at the centres for keeping personal belongings. Candidates have therefore been advised not to bring bags, electronic items or other valuables. Only pens, pencils, ID cards, e-Admit Cards and photographs will be permitted inside the examination halls.