Rakuten Viber, NDRRMA collaborate to enhance disaster preparedness

KATHMANDU: Rakuten Viber and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) have teamed up to launch a new channel aimed at bolstering public safety during monsoon season in Nepal. This strategic partnership underscores both organisations' commitment to improving emergency preparedness and raising public awareness by providing crucial information to vulnerable communities.

The newly established NDRRMA Channel on Viber offers a range of features designed to keep users informed during natural disasters. Subscribers receive real-time alerts, news updates, and essential safety guidelines, ensuring they are well-prepared for emergencies like landslides and floods, which are common during the monsoon period.

This channel serves as a critical resource for local communities, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that protect themselves and their loved ones with accurate and timely information. Particularly in remote areas where traditional communication methods may be less reliable, the Viber channel can be a lifeline.

To support the channel's launch, Viber and NDRRMA recently conducted a simulation involving the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA), the National Emergency Operation Centre, District Administration Office representatives, and volunteers. The successful exercise demonstrated how Viber can be effectively utilised during emergencies, showcasing its potential to facilitate rapid and efficient response efforts.

Bhisma Kumar Bhusal, Joint Secretary at MoHA, emphasised the significance of such simulations: "Exercises like these streamline communication between departments, resulting in quicker and more efficient response times."

David Tse, Senior Director for APAC at Rakuten Viber, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "Our partnership with NDRRMA represents a significant step toward enhancing public safety in Nepal. Leveraging our platform, we aim to provide crucial, real-time information to the public, helping them stay safe during the monsoon season and beyond."

Dijan Bhattarai, Spokesperson and Information Officer at NDRRMA, added, "This channel is a valuable tool in our ongoing efforts to improve disaster preparedness and response. With Viber as our platform, we can reach a wider audience, ensuring that everyone has access to vital information during emergencies."

Rakuten Viber has consistently prioritised community connectivity and information sharing. This latest initiative with NDRRMA aligns with Viber's broader commitment to making emergency response information more accessible and efficient, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient society.

Users can stay informed by subscribing to the NDRRMA Channel on Viber.