The Union Cabinet has retrospectively approved the establishment of an International Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in the capital, New Delhi. The CDRI is planned to be launched at the UN Climate Action Summit in New York, USA on 23rd September 2019. This summit, organized by the UN Secretary-General, will bring together an unprecedented number of Heads of States and give high-level visibility to the CDRI.
The Charter Preparation and Finalization
The charter for the coalition will be drafted after gathering inputs from potential member countries. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in consultation with the Ministry of External Affairs, will handle this task. The thrust will be on disaster resilient infrastructure that will address the loss reduction targets outlined in the Sendai Framework. Simultaneously, it will cater to a variety of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contribute significantly to climate change adaptation.
The Expected Role of CDRI
The primary function of the CDRI is to act as a platform where knowledge about various aspects of disaster and climate resilience of infrastructure can be generated and exchanged. It aims to establish a mechanism that can help countries elevate their capacities and practices concerning infrastructure development. This goal would be achieved keeping narratives such as risk context and economic needs of particular countries into account.
Developed and developing countries, large and small economies, nations at early or advanced stages of infrastructure development, and those having moderate or high disaster risks will find the CDRI addressing their common concerns.
Facts about CDRI
| Full Form | Establishment Approval by | Launch Date and Venue | Charter Preparation by | Main Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure | Union Cabinet | 23rd September 2019, UN Climate Action Summit, New York, USA | National Disaster Management Authority in consultation with the Ministry of External Affairs | Creating resilience in infrastructure to combat disasters and climate change; contributing to Sendai Framework and Sustainable Development Goals |
The Future Impact of the CDRI
Despite being in its nascent stages, the CDRI shows great promise. The potential influence of this coalition on global infrastructure development is significant. By fostering knowledge exchange and enhancing capacity for disaster resilient infrastructure, the CDRI can serve as a critical tool for both developed and developing nations. Its expected role in addressing international concerns about climate change adaptation further foregrounds its importance in the contemporary world.
