In a video message, the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the 5th International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI) 2023. The CDRI is a global initiative aimed at developing disaster-resilient infrastructure worldwide. In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for integrated and inclusive infrastructure to serve people even during times of crisis.
The Global Vision of CDRI
The Prime Minister noted that the CDRI arose from a global vision that disasters’ impact is not just local, but it can also affect the entire world. Therefore, our response must be integrated, not isolated. He further highlighted that over 40 countries from advanced and developing nations, large or small, from the Global South or North, have become part of the CDRI. The Prime Minister found it encouraging that global institutions, private sectors, and domain experts are also involved.
Priorities for Disaster Resilience Infrastructure
The Prime Minister outlined some priorities for disaster-resilient infrastructure in the context of this year’s theme of ‘Delivering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure’. He emphasized that infrastructure is not only about returns but also about reach and resilience. It must leave no one behind and serve people even during times of crisis. The Prime Minister stressed the need for a holistic view of infrastructure, where social and digital infrastructure are as important as transport infrastructure.
Importance of Early Restoration of Normalcy
Along with quick relief, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to focus on early restoration of normalcy too. He highlighted that resilience is built between one disaster and another, and studying past disasters and learning lessons from them is the way forward.
Intelligent Use of Local Knowledge
Shri Modi underlined the intelligent use of local knowledge of building infrastructures that can withstand disasters. Modern technology with local insights can be great for resilience. Further, if documented well, local knowledge may become a global best practice, the Prime Minister said.
Inclusive CDRI Initiatives
The Prime Minister noted the inclusive intent of some of the CDRI initiatives. He mentioned the Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS) initiative, benefiting many island nations. He also remarked on the Infrastructure Resilience Accelerator Fund, which was announced last year. This 50 million dollar fund has generated immense interest among developing nations. The Prime Minister emphasized that the commitment of financial resources is key to the success of initiatives.
CDRI and G20 Presidency
Mentioning India’s G20 presidency, the Prime Minister informed about the inclusion of the CDRI in many working groups. He stated that ‘The solutions you explore here will receive attention at the highest levels of global policy-making’.
Importance of CDRI’s Work
Referring to the recent disasters like the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, the Prime Minister concluded by underlining the importance of CDRI’s work. He stated that the scale and intensity of recent disasters highlight the urgency of the CDRI’s mission to build disaster-resilient infrastructure worldwide.
In Conclusion
The Prime Minister’s address at ICDRI 2023 highlights the need for integrated and inclusive infrastructure to serve people during times of crisis. It emphasizes the importance of learning from past disasters and intelligent use of local knowledge. The Prime Minister’s remarks also emphasize the need for financial commitment to the success of initiatives aimed at building disaster-resilient infrastructure.
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