On August 23, 2023, a significant event titled "Disaster Dialogue" took place at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) in Singhadurbar. This collaborative effort between NDRRMA and Public Affairs Research and Communication (PARC) brought together distinguished experts to address the vital role of senior citizens in disaster preparedness.
The Wisdom of Experience: Mr. Gautam's Opening Remarks
The event commenced with a thought-provoking address by our host, Mr. Krishnamurari Gautam. He highlighted a concerning aspect of our society: the undervaluation of the capabilities possessed by our senior citizens. Mr. Gautam brought to light the tendency to marginalize them from familial and societal responsibilities, inadvertently leaving their wealth of knowledge, skills, and experiences underutilized. Touching upon the political influence of the elderly, he noted that between 30-40% of the electorate consists of elderly voters. Mr. Gautam underscored the urgent need to explore the immense contributions that senior citizens can make to our nation and society at large.
Strategies and Solutions: Insights from the Experts
During the dialogue session, Professor Dr. Jeevaram Pokhrel delivered an engaging presentation on essential strategies for disaster risk reduction. He placed particular emphasis on conducting drills and introduced a nature-based approach, citing the construction of ponds in vulnerable areas to significantly reduce the occurrence of disasters such as fires, floods, and landslides.
Dr. Dwarikanath Dhungel, author of "37 Saalko Bhookampa," presented a comprehensive overview based on his extensive experience with earthquakes. Referring to a field report by PARC, Dr. Dhungel spotlighted the heightened vulnerabilities this group faces due to shrinking family sizes and labour migration, stressing the vital role local government units play in reinforcing preparedness strategies.
A Call for Community-Based Action
Dr. Gaurishankar Das, a seasoned medical professional, delivered an enlightening address, drawing inspiration from an initiative by the government of the Philippines to involve elderly citizens in rescue operations. Dr. Das advocated for community-based disaster preparedness, recounting personal experiences with first-aid initiatives. He expressed deep concern for the health and well-being of the elderly during disasters, providing invaluable recommendations on ensuring access to suitable food, essential medications, and warm clothing during rescue operations.
In her remarks, Mrs. Ambika KC offered an enlightening perspective on the role of senior citizens, proposing viewing them not by age, but through the lens of their rich experience, skillset, and expertise. She placed a strong emphasis on the need to distinctly evaluate natural and human-induced disasters, advocating for tailored mitigation plans for each.
Conclusion: A More Inclusive and Resilient Society
The "Disaster Dialogue" event functioned as a vital forum for enhancing consciousness surrounding the imperative need to integrate senior citizens into disaster preparedness and response initiatives. The profound perspectives imparted by respected speakers emphasize the pressing necessity for all stakeholders to collectively work towards crafting a society that is more inclusive, resilient, and capable of effectively addressing the challenges posed by disasters.
