In a groundbreaking move to fortify disaster response capabilities, Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) unveils plans for a comprehensive multi-hazard early warning system. Estimated at a staggering Rs 81 billion 40 million and 80 thousand (US$ 614 million), this initiative aims to revolutionize disaster preparedness across the nation.
The NDRRMA reveals that the formidable cost is imperative for integrating the multi-hazard early warning system seamlessly into the government’s disaster mitigation strategy. This strategic integration is set to mitigate potential property losses stemming from various calamities, ensuring the efficacy of early warning mechanisms.
Anil Pokharel, the executive head of NDRRMA, underscores the urgency of this initiative, emphasizing its potential to save lives and safeguard millions worth of property. He highlights the critical need for advanced warning systems encompassing a wide array of natural disasters, including floods, landslides, lightning, forest fires, cold waves, avalanches, windstorms, hailstorms, and air pollution.
“This comprehensive approach is a pivotal step towards minimizing the escalating property losses inflicted by multifaceted catastrophes,” states Pokharel.
The NDRRMA’s proactive stance marks a significant departure from past practices, which primarily focused on flood forecasting. This ambitious endeavor signifies Nepal’s commitment to bolstering disaster response capabilities holistically, addressing a broader spectrum of potential threats.
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, discussions are underway with relevant stakeholders to develop a multi-disaster early warning system. This system aims to disseminate vital information in local languages, facilitating comprehension among the general populace.
The initiative underscores Nepal’s resilience in the face of mounting environmental challenges, signaling a paradigm shift towards proactive disaster management strategies. With the impending implementation of the multi-hazard early warning system, Nepal is poised to navigate future crises with greater resilience and efficacy.
