Journalists play key role in disaster risk reduction: Minister Hira Sarki

Dhangadhi: Sudurpaschim Province’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Law, Hira Sarki, emphasized the crucial role of journalists in disaster risk reduction.

Inaugurating a program on ‘Role of Media in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Risk Communication’ in Dhangadhi, Minister Sarki stated that journalists have a responsibility to raise awareness, influence government policies, and educate communities on disaster preparedness.

"Journalists should do everything from informing the community about disasters to lobbying the government for better risk management," he said. He further highlighted that while natural disasters can strike at any time, effective communication and timely information dissemination can help mitigate their impact.

The minister acknowledged that Sudurpaschim Province is highly vulnerable to various disasters and stressed that although property damage may be inevitable, human casualties can be minimized through timely warnings and proper information flow.

Speaking at the event, National Disaster Reduction and Management Authority spokesperson Dr. Dijan Bhattarai reiterated that journalists must explain disaster risk reduction strategies and policies to the public. Additionally, Kailali Chief District Officer Gogan Bahadur Hamal urged journalists to take an active role in disaster preparedness and response efforts.

The two-day media empowerment program, organized by the National Disaster Reduction and Management Authority and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law, is being managed by Mercy Corps and includes the participation of journalists from Kailali and Kanchanpur.