Mizoram seeks United Nations support to boost disaster resilience
Mizoram’s Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Minister met a UNDRR representative in New Delhi to discuss technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, and newu
Mizoram has asked the United Nations for greater technical cooperation to strengthen the state’s disaster resilience. The request was shared during a meeting in New Delhi between the state’s Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Minister Prof Lalnilawma and Kumar Kishore, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).
The discussions took place at Mizoram House and focused on improving disaster preparedness through technical support and international knowledge exchange. Prof Lalnilawma said the state faces growing vulnerability to natural disasters and climate-related hazards, with repeated landslides and rockfalls among the key risks.
Plans for safer urban growth and stronger systems
In the meeting, the minister also pointed to earthquake risk and environmental degradation as part of Mizoram’s disaster risk profile. He said the state is working on risk-informed urban planning and building safety. This includes mandatory geotechnical investigations to support safer development decisions.
Prof Lalnilawma briefed the UN official on a proposal to develop Thenzawl as a “Peace City”. The aim, as described during the meeting, is to ease developmental pressure on Aizawl while promoting disaster-resilient urban growth.
Collaboration on early warning and mitigation
The meeting also covered Mizoram’s existing collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on landslide mitigation. Officials discussed work related to early warning systems, resilient infrastructure and capacity building for disaster management. Prof Lalnilawma emphasised that continued technical assistance is needed to strengthen institutional capacity and overall preparedness.
Kumar Kishore welcomed Mizoram’s proactive approach to disaster risk reduction. He said the UNDRR is willing to facilitate international knowledge exchange, connect the state with global experts, and help highlight Mizoram’s practices on international platforms. The two sides also discussed a proposed North-East Regional Disaster Management Conclave that Mizoram plans to host later this year, with a focus on coordinated strategies for disaster risk reduction and resilient development. The meeting ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepen cooperation, including support for implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
