The inaugural function of a training programme on ‘Long Term Recovery and Reconstruction Strategies’ began here today.
The training programme is for five days and will continue until June 3. It is being organised by the National Institute of Disaster Management, New Delhi in collaboration with the Meghalaya Disaster Management Authority.
Around 60 people are taking part. Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, E Kharmalki, said that, under the guidance of all the resource persons, the participants from various sectors will gain from the training programme and come up with a very good preparatory plan on how to recover and reconstruct in case of a major disaster.
Amir Ali Khan, associate professor at NIDM, gave a brief introduction to the programme wherein he reminded the participants that they are here to discuss issues relating to earthquakes in the region and the long-term strategies for recovery and reconstruction.
He also discussed what type of planning is required if an earthquake occurs in Meghalaya. On a positive note, he challenged the participants to convert this training programme into an opportunity so that the system progresses in the right direction.
Prof Devesh Walia, head of the Department of Environmental Studies and Geology at North-Eastern Hill University, delivered the keynote address and highlighted the importance of the government in disaster management. He stressed upon the need to make the environment safe against earthquakes and the need for training of stakeholders and implementation of long-term recovery strategies.
