Partnership

20 October 2023

Local Support and Technical Challenges Discussed in Key Stakeholder Meeting

In a recent meeting, members of the GLOFCA team, partners, and stakeholders gathered to discuss the development of an Early Warning System (EWS) for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in Kyrgyzstan’s Ala-Archa National Park.

EWS Progress Shared

Laura Niggli and Holger Frey from UZH presented the current status of EWS planning to local representatives, including community leaders and National Park members.

Input from Stakeholders

The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to share their insights on how to best alert residents, tourists, and dacha owners about potential GLOFs and debris flows.

Local Support Evident

Local organizations expressed strong interest in the EWS and warmly welcomed plans for its establishment, emphasizing the need for improved disaster preparedness.

Challenges Identified

The meeting also revealed technical and administrative questions that require resolution in the finalization of the EWS design.

Implications for Stakeholders

• Local Communities: Local communities are integral to the success of the EWS and should stay engaged in its development to ensure their safety.
• Local Research Institutes: Their expertise is crucial in shaping the EWS, and their involvement ensures regional knowledge is leveraged effectively.
• Governmental Agencies Responsible for GLOFs: Government agencies should capitalize on local support and address technical and administrative challenges to enhance disaster preparedness. Their commitment is key to addressing specific hazards and enhancing preparedness at a governmental level.

Overall, the meeting signifies progress in EWS development and underscores the need for collaboration and problem-solving to protect Kyrgyzstan’s communities from GLOFs.