Preparatory coordination meeting: Meeting on developing hazard and vulnerability maps

A preparatory coordination meeting on assessing damage and needs related to floods and inundation, the developing and dissemination of hazard maps, and vulnerability maps was held on October 1, 2024, in the afternoon at Office No. 23 of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Soe Win, Union Minister for the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief, and Resettlement and Vice Chairman-2 of the National Natural Disaster Management Committee; U Ko Ko Hlaing, Union Minister for the Ministry (2) at the Office of the Chairman of the State Administration Council, Dr. Myo Thein Kyaw, Union Minister for the Ministry of Science and Technology; Dr. Yin Yin Nwe and U Lu Aye, advisors to the Chairman of the State Administration Council; Permanent Secretaries, Director-Generals, Deputy Permanent Secretaries, Deputy Director-Generals, and officials from various ministries.

During the meeting, Dr. Soe Win, the Union Minister, stated that the recent floods and inundations were extreme weather events that had not been experienced for many years, and that lessons learned should be drawn from these events to continue efforts to reduce vulnerabilities.

He encouraged a thorough assessment that aligns with the country's resources and circumstances and the development of action plans suited to the nation's needs through collective discussion.Following this, Union Minister U Ko Ko Hlaing mentioned that the country has previous experience in conducting assessments during past disasters.

He emphasized the need for broad and comprehensive consideration, identifying root causes, and suggesting appropriate follow-up actions. Next, the Union Minister of the Ministry of Science and Technology highlighted the use of the nation's resources in conducting assessments, including the possibility of employing mathematical modeling and artificial intelligence technology.

He also discussed the potential to connect with research activities conducted by undergraduate and postgraduate students within the ministry.The advisors to the Chairman of the State Administration Council also shared insights and suggestions based on lessons learned and experiences gained from previous disaster assessments both internationally and domestically.

Subsequently, attendees from different ministries discussed the potential areas where they could collaborate, funding mechanisms, and the areas where they should take action, according to the information received.