A big step in reducing the risk of disasters

Source: The post is based on the article “A big step in reducing the risk of disasters” published in “The Hindu” on 25th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Disaster and disaster management.

News: The author discusses how recent disasters show the need for more action on climate change. India has started a G20 group for reducing disaster risks. The group will focus on early warnings, resilient infrastructure, and funding for risk reduction. Brazil will continue this work when it leads the G20.

About Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction

Duration: 2015-2030.

Goal: Reduce disaster risks and losses.

Progress: At its midpoint, efforts are underway, but more is needed.

Global Importance: Recognized as the roadmap for reducing global disaster risks.

Key Calls to Action: Enhance early warning systems, develop resilient infrastructure, and secure funding for risk reduction.

Relation to G20: Directly supported by G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group’s priorities.

What are the initiatives taken by India for disaster risk reduction?

G20 Leadership: India has given high priority to disaster risk reduction during its G20 presidency.

Working Group: Established the first G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group, aiming to influence global economic decisions linked to disaster risks.

Early Warning Systems: Emphasized the role of inclusive and multi-hazard early warning systems. For instances, during Cyclone Biparjoy, India’s effective warning and action systems resulted in zero deaths.

Resilient Infrastructure:

Launched the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure with the UN in 2019.

Focuses on enhancing the resilience of critical infrastructure globally.

Aims to support policy development and capacity building, especially in developing countries.

Resource Allocation: India uses risk metrics to distribute resources at local levels for disaster risk reduction. This method aids in targeted and efficient resource utilization.

What additional measures should be considered?

Proactive Approach: Instead of just responding, there should be more upfront investment to prevent or reduce the impact of disasters.

G20’s Role: The G20, representing 85% of global GDP, needs to incorporate disaster risk considerations into economic decisions.

Expand Early Warning Systems:

Use disruptive technologies to enhance forecasting and cater to local needs.

Support the UN Secretary General’s goal of universal early warning coverage by 2027.

Infrastructure Resilience:

Evaluate and enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure globally.

Ensure infrastructure supports sustainable development outcomes.

Financing Strategies:

Develop new methods of funding disaster risk reduction.

Collaborate with private sectors, as many risks are generated by them.

Ecosystem-based Approaches: Scale up methods that prioritize the health of ecosystems to mitigate disaster risks.