Srinagar, November 30(KNB): Safina Beigh, Chairperson of the District Development Council (DDC) Baramulla addressed the 6th World Congress on Disaster Management (WCDM) 2023 in Dehradun, emphasizing the pivotal role of ‘Community Participation’ in mitigating the impact of natural disasters.
In her address, Beigh highlighted the destructive effects of disasters on mountain ecosystems and communities, despite government efforts in budget allocation and training disaster response forces. She stressed the urgency of comprehensive climate management and environmental protection policies to safeguard against future losses.
“Community Participation,” Beigh asserted, is a crucial element in curbing the impact of natural disasters. This approach involves directly involving vulnerable communities in planning and implementing mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery measures. Beigh underscored the importance of integrating disaster preparedness into the core system of panchayati raj institutions at the ground level.
Through community-based disaster preparedness, collaborative efforts can be harnessed to innovate and implement strategies tailored to the vulnerability of mountainous regions. Beigh emphasized the significance of a well-prepared Crisis Management Plan and Team to tackle such situations effectively.
The Chairperson highlighted the powerful trio of innovation, collaboration and communication , calling for a discourse on understanding the challenges and possibilities of mountain ecosystems.
Beigh expressed confidence in the nation’s resources, technologies, moral and political will to set an example for disaster resilience today, tomorrow, and in the future.-KNB