Last updated:
07 October, 2020

Strategy Asia 2020 

Emergency Management and Response Planning for Cities: A Multi-Sectoral Approach

The success and effectiveness of response to a disaster depends largely on the preparations that were put in place beforehand. A good response system can save more lives and reduce damage to livelihoods and economies. Response planning is particularly crucial in cities, not only because of the concentration of people, infrastructure, utilities and lifeline facilities but also because urban disasters are a complex mix of natural, technological and social events.

Strategy: To strengthen the capacity of national and local governments in managing emergencies and planning response. This will be achieved by assessing and improving systems and procedures that will enhance inter-governmental coordination, as well as cooperation with non-government, international and community organizations in a range of sectors from health, shelter, infrastructure and communications to water supply, sanitation and utilities. An evaluation methodology will also be put in place to ensure that the lessons learned during a disaster will further improve systems and procedures.

Target: Strategy Asia 2020 will work in partnership with government and non-government agencies to develop response plans in 10 disaster-prone countries in Asia and build capacity to implement the plans during emergencies in cities.