Role of Community Radio in Disaster Management Key

Role of Community Radio in Disaster Management

Key Survey Findings Ø Landslides, earthquake and floods ØDeath toll highest amongst elderly, disabled and children ØNo specific programmes for women, children and elderly on disaster management ØNo manual to deal with natural disaster ØMost CR stations housed in buildings which are not specifically designed to withstand natural disaster Ø 50% of CRs have staff trained in disaster management Ø No collaboration with met stations or relevant organisations Ø Very few programmes on trauma healing

Community Radio and Disaster Management In the Bangalore Declaration community radios have committed to provide localized emergency news, disaster recovery, relief, rehabilitation, and sustainable alternatives as well as create a space for trauma healing and reaffirming faith in the face of adversity Activities of Community Radio in Disaster Management: Ø On Air Activity Ø Off Air Activity

On Air Activity Ø Programmes on disaster preparedness Ø Updates on the natural disaster prevalent in the area Ø Dispel rumours and myths Ø Trauma healing programmes

Off Air Activities Ø Emergency drills Ø Disaster simulation workshops Ø Help establish links with relevant government offices and NGOs Ø Create disaster management network

Role of Women in Disaster Management Ø Include women in all aspects of disaster management Ø Reduce number of casualties and save lives Ø Better service providers Ø Cultural norms make it even more essential

Lessons Learnt Ø Timely preparation for disaster Ø Importance of community-based disaster response Ø Training on disaster management for radio staff and community Ø Train community radios on coordinating relief activity and information updates Ø Need for a handbook/manual on how collectives can respond especially on complex issues around timing ØBirth of new community radios and positive attitude of governments towards CRs.

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