VISAKHAPATNAM : Local bodies should be given importance in implementing the disaster risk reduction (DRR) system as they play a crucial role in all phases of disaster management, suggested the Visakhapatnam Declaration released at the concluding ceremony of the second World Congress on Disaster Management (WCDM) here Sunday. The World Congress emphasised the need for incorporating a new culture of prevention and preparedness as an essential component of all development planning and implementation besides involving local bodies in preparedness planning, response, recovery and factoring in DRR in development processes and outcomes.

Deputy CM N Chinarajappa Elaborating on the Visakhapatnam Declaration, Bihar Disaster Management Authority vice-chairman AK Sinha said that the WCDM had resolved to achieve the recent Sendai Framework for DRR and integration into sustainable development goals and climate change adaptation, by setting up a full time dedicated and independent body of experts on the lines of State Disaster Management Authority at provincial level. It would also invest in strengthening and operationalising district-level and regional units. The WCDM felt that devolution approach to the last level of governance and communities (both in rural and urban areas), is the key to an innovation in disaster management. At the four-day congress, about 1,000 disaster management professionals, practitioners, researchers, academicians, defence service personnel, government authorities, NGOs, multi-lateral organisations, media, representatives from the private sector as well as children communities committed to disaster managementm came together and deliberated on relevant issues. The conference resolved to innovate and create an accountable action plan and identify the risk factors to address their root causes. “Natural Resources and Environmental concerns are a critical concern which impact the life-line of communities,” Sinha said.

Pointing out that the global processes ‘towards building resilience of communities and nations’ through Yokohama Strategy, IDNDR, HFA and recently, Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-30), the WCDM strongly felt that the same had not percolated to the sub-national, especially local levels. The World Congress stressed the need for sustaining a deep focus on vulnerable women, youth, children, disabled, elderly and strengthening inclusive approaches.

“We hope to see the new capital of Amaravathi becoming a model for the rest of the world as a Smart Resilient City which includes the concerns of all stakeholders. The 21st century city must retain its ancient cultural heritage and history, but also become disaster/climate resilient,” Sinha added.