Steps urged for engagement of women in disaster risk reduction

The theme was a thoughtful one, especially in view of the risks of disaster that high mountainous societies, such as Chitral, face due to adverse climactic changes, and the need for active engagement of women in disaster risk reduction measures. The setting of Reshun provided a serious reminder of the havoc that climate-change induced disasters can wreak on ill-prepared communities. Speakers at the event included Miss Naushaba, Headmistress of GGHS, Reshun; Dr. Shams Ali Baig, Assistant Professor of Environmental Sciences at Bacha Khan University; and Rahmat Ali, Chairman CHEPS. The speakers laid emphasis on the important role that young women can play in mitigating risks of disaster due to climate change. The headmistress narrated the excellent work that staff and students of GGHS Reshun did in providing relief to the affected communities during 2015 flood. Dr. Shams Ali Baig urged the young women to organize green clubs to raise awareness about adverse effects of climate change and to be sources of authentic information. On behalf of CHEPS, Rahmat Ali distributed certificates among community and CHEPS volunteers, all females, who have been active in providing relief to affected communities during floods and other natural disasters during the past few years. CHEPS’ volunteers organized a similar event at a private girls school in Kuragh where the efforts of the school’s students in creating awareness about adverse effects of climate change and in providing relief during times of disaster were recognized by distributing certificates of recognition. The principal of the school underscored the crucial role that young women have to play in taking measures for affective disaster risk mitigation.]]>