Computer Association of Nepal - USA

Houston, TX, USA. May 28-29, 2010

Prabuddha Dahal

 

A joint panel discussion on earthquake disaster preparedness in Nepal was organized by ANMF/ASNEngr/CAN-USA in Houston, TX during the 4^th regional conference of NRN. The panel was chaired by Dr. Prahlad Pant and moderated by Dr. Bishnu Phuyal.

 

The chair, Dr. Pant, opened the discussion by emphasizing the need for urgent attention to disaster preparedness in Nepal. The moderator, Dr. Phuyal, highlighted how the cooperation of the three agencies has already made a positive impact, leading into a conference with wide participation. He then invited the panelists to share their perspective on disaster preparedness.

 

The first panelist, Dr. Gaury Adhikary (E.C, ANMF), showcased how ANMF had participated in numerous healthcare services in Nepal and has had a strong footing in the field. He expressed his organization’s interest and ability to quickly mobilize medical personnel and medical assistance shortly after disaster has occurred.

 

The second panelist, Dr. Rajendra Shrestha(V.P, ASNEngr),  agreed that an effort to make better use of resources and a higher level of cooperation between the three organizations was necessary. Dr. Shrestha graphically explained to the audience how geological formation of the Indian sub-continent and the Himalayas has put Nepal at a high risk of major earthquake activity.

 

Prabudhda Dahal (V.P, CAN-USA) explained the possibility of complete failure of communication and transportation infrastructure during an earthquake and stressed the need for alternate communication mediums, such as walkie-talkies or satellite phones, to build a back-up communication system. He also underscored the need for effective use of technologies, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), before, during, and after a major disaster. For such a massive task, he stressed the need for cooperation between the three agencies and urged the audience to get involved through membership or by volunteering time.

(Click here to view complete presentation)

 

Suman R. Timsina of NRN emphasized the need for cooperation between all fellow Nepalese living around the globe and assured, as an NRN executive, to work towards achieving such cooperation through NRN’s programs and networks.

 

The session was highly interactive, with curious and active participants, who not only listened and questioned the panelist, but also provided suggestions. Below is a list of suggestions/questions that came from the participants:

 

1.      Participants suggested that the joint effort be expanded to

a.       Organize similar presentation on the status and path forward for disaster preparedness in Nepal

b.      Prepare projects and participate in disaster awareness in Nepal especially in public places and institutions such as Schools and Hospitals with large number of people.

2.      Participants suggested that the three organizations should build a coalition and partner with other agencies for Building code enforcement in Nepal

a.       Majority of the attendees seemed unsure on how to take this issue in a manner that will generate results

3.      Another suggestion worth noting is a potential for cultural barriers

a.       What is the preparation to address cultural ethnocentrism following a disaster, thereby, limiting flow of essential goods and/or services from or via one community to another

b.      Efforts should be focused on  bringing politicians and social scientists together to discuss this issue

c.       Learn from other areas that have seen such conflicts during disaster (Haiti?)

4.      Mr. Sharda J. Thapa suggested that satellite phone companies could be willing to provide sets so we need to approach them with this request. He graciously agreed to help connect to these providers.

5.      Participants raised questions on the availability or establishment of a contingency fund. If there is none in place, it is something that needs immediate attention.

6.      The need to develop a comprehensive plan to bring government and local agencies, such as Mahanagarpalika, together with the Aid and Non-Profit organizations.

 

Prabuddha Dahal is Vice President of CAN-USA and is an expert in GIS.  He can be reached at prabdahal@gmail.com