PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister
– Photo: ANI
Expansion
Dr PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that the risks of glacial lakes have to be reduced to ensure a secure future for communities. He said the discussion on the Sikkim Glacial Lake outburst flood disaster has drawn attention to the enormity of the challenge. In fact, the South Lhonak GLOF was a warning to all of us.
Let us inform that Dr. Mishra was addressing the fourth workshop of the Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CODRR) on strategies for Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risk reduction. Where he praised the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Water Resources Department for organizing the workshop.
Showed the risks associated with lakes
Dr Mishra also underlined the urgent need for effective strategies to address the risks associated with glacial lakes. Reiterating the words of PM Modi, he said that disaster risk reduction does not just mean responding to disasters but also building resilience. The best way to deal with disasters is to prevent them. Along with this he mentioned the international perspective and experiences, especially India’s experiences, challenges in reducing risks and related aspects.
Message given for a secure future
Dr. Mishra said that we must work together across borders and disciplines to create a safer world. He highlighted the importance of cooperation in addressing global challenges such as GLOF risks. Also in favor of international cooperation, Dr. Mishra emphasized that India’s commitment goes beyond national boundaries. Therefore, it is an important aspect to connect with GLOF experts from countries like Bhutan, Nepal, Peru, Switzerland and Tajikistan.
India’s CODRR gave a new look to coordination…
Dr PK further said that the Government of India launched a coordination platform called Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR). This platform enabled us to organize a series of meetings followed by regular feedback, to renew dialogue between central scientific agencies and states on a topic of this importance. It also opened the way for handing over primary responsibility to the states while ensuring adequate support from the central agencies.
Tri-Focal Lens – Assessment, Monitoring and Mitigation
India has made substantial progress through tri-focal lenses. Dr. Mishra said that states were encouraged to conduct a campaign to assess all A-category lakes in the summer of 2024. This led to significant involvement of local officials.
