Post Disaster Needs Assessment Training for Himachal Pradesh's Recovery and Reconstruction

Shimla Aug 31

In response to the widespread damage caused by the monsoon season, the Himachal Pradesh Government sought assistance from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to conduct a Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) in the state. This assessment aims to evaluate the physical and economic losses incurred, enabling the formulation of effective recovery and reconstruction plans. Initially, the assessment was carried out in severely affected districts, and it is now extended to the remaining districts. An online training session was organized for district administrators, involving experts from various sectors to guide them on damage and loss assessment, data collection, and online platform usage. The training emphasized the significance of this exercise as a foundation for seeking funding support from government and international agencies. NDMA’s Joint Secretary highlighted the opportunity for the state to strengthen recovery and reconstruction efforts based on lessons learned from previous PDNA exercises.