As a freshly graduated geomatics engineer, we must have always been fascinated by the possibilities of using technology to make a difference in people’s lives. And my role in the Disaster Risk Reduction – Young Leaders Fellowship program had given me an opportunity to fulfill this passion.
I was selected by Youth Innovation Lab as a DRR fellow for disaster risk reduction in Durga Bhagawati Rural Municipality, Rauthat district. I was both excited and nervous since this was going to be my first professional work experience.
I had been tasked with data collection of critical infrastructures like education, health, communication, evacuation center, open space and so on along with BIPAD portal localization in related municipality. These data were collected using a mobile application called ‘Tathyanka’.
BIPAD portal is an integrated web platform that visualizes important information regarding multiple hazards. It is a vital tool that local governments can use in decision making and planning activities that can make a better society. This role as a DRR fellow in mobilizing trained local youths with sound knowledge on the BIPAD portal can have a significant impact in building resilience in the region.
Fig1: Training for officers of Durga Bhagawati Rural Municipality for handling bipad portal.
On 2023-02-14, I reached Rajdevi Municipality, Rautahat district. At the first sight, I had a negative impression of the location because it was isolated and lacked amenities such as food and lodging. I had to subsist on a single packet of noodles for the entire day, which left me feeling completely depleted. Some people were trying to take advantage of my situation as I was new to the place. The culture and lifestyle of local community was totally different from mine. At a point I questioned myself why everything is going against me? But as time heals everything, everything started going better. Not only I had bad experiences but also experienced warm gestures and support.
The first night I spent in Rajdevi was on staff quarter of Municipality Police station. Next day local authorities helped me to find a room where I stayed rest of the three months. The people and authorities of Durga Bhagawati were very kind and helped me during data collection. Depending upon the Municipality and resources available you may get a bike or other means of transportation though I didn’t got it.
Working in an entirely new place can be daunting, but you have embrace the challenges and turn them into opportunities to learn and grow. This mindset is essential in any sort of work, but especially in the context of disaster risk reduction, where adaptability and resilience are critical.
Fig2: Going on other edge of river for data collection using boat, Bagmati river, Rauthat
The role of collecting data of critical infrastructures and engaging with local communities is a critical step towards building resilience in the region. It is heartening to know that you are signaling the government authority to address this issue, which can go a long way in preventing such calamities. Communication and transportation issues had arisen, but I had taken these challenges as new experiences as well as opportunities.
Fig3: Data collection in Rajdevi Primary School
I also got opportunity to feel the real problems faced by the society which was terrific, and it was natural to feel emotional while listening to the stories of the people affected by disaster. Since, my work was like bridging data gaps with public and government officials I learned to deal with the authorities and community better.
In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed the work as a DRR fellow and it is heartening to see young talents dedicating their skills and time towards building resilience in communities.
