Kathmandu, July 16, 2025 - In a significant step toward building a safer and more disaster-resilient Nepal, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) hosted an interactive discussion with key stakeholders on the theme of "Disaster Risk Knowledge" - the first pillar of the global ‘Early Warning for All’ (EW4ALL) initiative.
The program is part of the United Nations-led campaign championed by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), which aims to ensure no one is left behind when it comes to accessing early warning information. This global initiative focuses on four strategic pillars:
1. Disaster Risk Knowledge
2. Observation, Analysis, and Forecasting
3. Dissemination and Communication
4. Preparedness, Response, and Capabilities
Nepal is taking leadership in implementing the first pillar, with NDRRMA serving as the lead agency and the World Food Programme (WFP) acting as the co-lead. The discussion held today aimed to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and refine strategies for better understanding and mapping of disaster risks across the country - particularly in light of increasing climate-related hazards such as floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
Experts emphasized that risk knowledge forms the backbone of effective early warning systems. Without accurate and localized data on hazards, vulnerabilities, and exposure, timely alerts cannot be generated or trusted by the public.
“This initiative is about equity in safety. It’s not enough to have technology - we need to ensure that even the most remote communities receive timely, actionable information,” said a senior representative from UNDRR during the event.
As climate change continues to amplify the frequency and intensity of disasters in Nepal, investing in early warning systems that are inclusive, locally grounded, and community-driven has become an urgent national priority. Today's interaction highlighted the need to bridge data gaps, integrate indigenous knowledge, and enhance coordination among government agencies, humanitarian partners, and local governments.
Ecosphere News will continue to follow the progress of the EW4ALL initiative in Nepal and report on its impact across vulnerable communities.
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