AHMEDABAD: Disaster resilient infrastructure takes center stage on the second day of the G20 DRR Working Group meeting
The second day of the first Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Working Group meeting mainly discussed Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Financing for Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Response, Recovery and “Build Better”. Participants explored potential financing models, policy frameworks and principles for resilient infrastructure.
The day began with a side event on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, co-organized by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Mami Mizutori, elaborated on UNDRR’s approach to disaster-resilient infrastructure, including the policy framework and principles for resilient infrastructure, and an understanding of how to address nations’ vulnerabilities and capabilities . Mr. Kieran McNamara from the International Energy Agency also spoke about climate impacts in the hydro-power sector and stressed that if resilience is not adopted in time, hydropower could suffer.
Ms. Mrinalini Srivastava, G20 Director of the DRR Working Group, highlighted the critical importance of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in building resilient and sustainable communities. He emphasized that investing in disaster-resilient infrastructure and adopting a proactive approach to disaster risk reduction can significantly reduce the impact of natural disasters.
India’s strong commitment to disaster risk reduction efforts was demonstrated by hosting the G20 DRR Working Group meeting. The discussion on disaster resilient infrastructure and financing for DRR highlighted the need for increased investment and innovative financing mechanisms to reduce the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities.
The working group meeting enabled the G20 countries to share best practices, discuss challenges, identify opportunities and cooperate in achieving the Sendai Framework for DRR goals. The debate on disaster-resistant infrastructure and financing for DRR has highlighted the need for increased investment and innovative financing mechanisms to reduce the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities.
The G20 DRR Working Group will continue to play an important role in advancing the global disaster risk reduction agenda and promoting the resilience of communities around the world.
