The International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (IWDRI) was recently held in New Delhi for two days. This event was a collaborative effort of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR), and other organisations including the Global Commission on Adaptation, United Nations Development Programme, and the World Bank. The primary purpose of this workshop was to identify good practices in disaster risk management.
Purpose of the Workshop
The workshop aimed to address relevant sectors such as Transport, Energy, Telecom and Water, identifying specific areas and pathways for collaborative research on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (DRI). A major focus was also placed on the creation and development of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), including constructing a planned rollout schedule over the next three years. The workshop also intended to establish a forum for members to collaborate on common goals and to make dedicated commitments.
Role of UNISDR
Established in 1999, the UNISDR serves as a dedicated secretariat, tasked with the implementation of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR). With a headquarters based in Geneva, Switzerland, its primary responsibility is to serve as the focal point of coordination for disaster reduction within the United Nations system. As part of UN’s Secretariat, it is led by the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG).
Strategic Framework 2016-2021
The UNISDR’s Strategic Framework 2016-2021 highlights a vision to significantly reduce disaster risk and losses as part of a more sustainable future. It functions as the custodian of the Sendai Framework, supporting countries and communities in implementing, reviewing, and monitoring progress towards this vision.
Background of the Event
The inaugural International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure was held in January 2018 in India. Following the Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in New Delhi in 2016, India announced the formation of a Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). The CDRI is designed as a platform for knowledge exchange and capacity development partnership.
International Agreements and Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
Various international agreements have highlighted the importance and long-term advantages of investing in resilient infrastructure. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030 priorities include investment in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) for building resilience and building back better. It identifies disaster resilient infrastructure as an essential driver of economic growth and development.
| Framework Type | Target |
|---|---|
| SFDRR 2015-2030 | Investing in DRR for resilience and to build back better |
| Goal 9 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Disaster resilient infrastructure as a driver of economic growth and development |
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
The SFDRR 2015-2030 offers seven clear targets and four priorities for action to reduce existing and prevent new disaster risks, including understanding disaster risk, strengthening disaster risk governance, investing in disaster reduction for resilience, and enhancing disaster preparedness. The framework is a 15-year, voluntary agreement that emphasizes that disaster risk reduction is the state’s primary responsibility but should be shared with stakeholders such as local governments, private sectors, and other relevant groups.
