The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The National Assembly emphasized on the need for preparedness during natural disasters, especially earthquake and flood, and also the need for relevant budget allocation.
The Member of Parliament (MP) Tashi Tenzin from Radhi Sakteng constituency said that being a mountainous country and triggered by climate change, these disasters are a threat, and are most likely to occur. Therefore, there is the need for better initiatives such as awareness and risk reduction strategies.
“One major earthquake our country faced was during the 18th century, some 300 years ago with a magnitude of 8. Studies shows that such major earthquake can happen anytime. During the 2009 Na-Rang earthquake in Mongar, the 6.1 magnitude earthquake incurred huge loss and damage. Also, studies have revealed that if an earthquake with a magnitude of 8 is struck, it will be 730 times powerful that the one that hit in 2009.”
Lyonpo Tshering, Ministry of Home Affairs, shared that until now we are blessed that such powerful disasters has not struck Bhutan.
He shared that the recent flood in Dechencholing, Thimphu has given them the opportunity to reflect on the lessons learnt. It has led to the establishment of a contingency plan which will be very crucial for future related disaster. The plan will be forwarded to the Cabinet for approval.
Further, he said that the ministry has established a National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and through several meetings a National Disaster Response and Coordination Committee (NDRCC). and National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has been formed.
These will play an important role in future during such disasters, and the ministry will ensure that NEOC aligns to international standard.
The Home Minister said, “The recent Dechencholing flood has made us realize how laid back we were, in terms of responsiveness. Here, NEOC will play a critical role particularly in responding and coordination. Also, we have 24 disaster management representatives from 20 dzongkhags and four thromdes, currently undergoing a two-week training program on disaster response in Phuntsholing. 400 individuals have also been trained in Tashigatsel for Search and Rescue (SAR) team which is a training for capacity building in disaster risk management.”
He shared that relevant awareness campaigns through videos are also being developed to educate the public for future preparedness.
MP Kinzang Wangchuk of Dramedtse Ngatshang asked what specific phase of disaster management are practiced in our country. He also questioned on collaborative efforts that the ministry is undertaking.
MP Tashi Dorji of Nubi Tangsibji highlighted the need for budget allocation for restoration works post disaster and related plans or way forward of the ministry.
The Home Minister said that ministers including the Prime Minister and relevant agencies are collaborating in disaster management front. However, no specific budget allocation is there for restoration works post disaster.
