Nepal, one of the world’s most disaster-prone and vulnerable countries, with an overall risk index of 5.4, faces numerous challenges in its Early Warning and Alerts Management System (EWAMS). These challenges stem from a combination of complex geographical and topographical obstacles, inadequate communication systems and networks, insufficient technical and infrastructure support, and limited public awareness, preparedness, and community engagement. As a result, the impact of various hazards on at-risk communities is uneven.

To build more resilient communities, the Nepal Preparedness Partnership accessed the Asian Disaster Readiness Fund (ADRF) in December 2024. The activities outlined in the NPP ADRF proposal focus on two key thematic areas supported by the ADRF:

  1. Strengthening forecast-based, locally led early warning and early action systems to reach at-risk, last-mile communities.
  2. Enhancing community resilience through Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) approaches.

Strengthening the Local Emergency Operations Center (LEOC)

A core component of the NPP’s efforts is the establishment of a Local Emergency Operations Center (LEOC). This initiative aims to create a more inclusive, technologically advanced, and locally tailored disaster management system that addresses gaps in capacity, communication, and community engagement.

Objectives of the LEOC Initiative:

  • To improve the reach and effectiveness of early warning systems in disaster-prone areas.
  • To create a more coordinated approach to disaster response and recovery.
  • To enhance the operational capabilities of local governments and communities.

Key Milestone: LEOC Training Program A major milestone in strengthening the EWAMS was the Operational Training for Local Emergency Operations Centers, held from January 20–22, 2025, in Suraha, Ratan Nagar Municipality. The training brought together provincial, local government, and community officials and representatives, including Bagmati Province and Ratnanagar, Kalika, Madi, and Khairahani municipalities.

Diverse stakeholders from various sectors engaged in discussions and learned about communication and information flow through the LEOCs.

Training Objectives:

  • Equip municipal staff and community members with the skills needed to manage LEOCs.
  • Strengthen the operational and functional capacity of local authorities in disaster management.
  • Facilitate coordination between local government authorities and community-based disaster management teams.

Training Highlights:

  • Introduction to key technical competencies such as data management, alert dissemination, and coordination mechanisms.
  • Overview of organizational structures and roles needed for effective LEOC operations.
  • Foundational training to prepare participants for future phases of LEOC SOP development.

Focus Areas of LEOC Training

The training program focused on three critical components that are vital to establishing a functional LEOC:

1. Data Management

  • Participants learned to collect, analyze, and manage disaster-related data, which is essential for timely and effective decision-making during disasters.

2. Organizational Structure

  • A clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of each position within the LEOC was emphasized to ensure a streamlined response during a disaster.

3. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

  • Participants were introduced to the development of SOPs, which will guide the day-to-day operations of the LEOC and ensure consistency in disaster response activities

By strengthening these areas, the training prepared participants for specific roles, such as:

  • Data Managers: Handling disaster-related information, ensuring data accuracy, and managing the Bipad Portal.
  • Communication Officers: Disseminating alerts, coordinating information flow, and maintaining liaison with stakeholders.
  • Emergency Coordinators: Overseeing response actions, mobilizing resources, and ensuring coordination with LDMC and other agencies.
The participants shared their views on the importance of information and expressed confidence in their newfound ability to effectively utilize Early Warning Systems.

Strengthening Information Management and Community Engagement

One of the most critical aspects of disaster response is the efficient management of information. The training helped participants improve their ability to handle data by establishing clear communication channels and involving community-based organizations (CBOs) in data collection.

Information Flow and Communication:

  • Engaging community-based organizations (CBOs), volunteers, and ward offices in systematic data collection.
  • Establishing clear communication channels between community structures and emergency management authorities.
  • Ensuring data is uploaded regularly to the Bipad Portal for accessibility at federal, provincial, and district levels.
  • Engaging ward offices in validating information at the community level.
  • Mobilizing municipal police, local volunteers, and ward-level mechanisms to facilitate real-time information collection and dissemination before, during, and after disasters.

Conclusion: Building a Resilient Disaster Response System

The LEOC training is a crucial step in Nepal’s ongoing efforts to enhance disaster resilience. By improving the operational capabilities of local governments and community representatives, the NPP aims to create a more responsive and effective disaster management system.

Participants gained a sense of responsibility as focal points for data management and the dissemination of accurate information during emergencies. Their inclusion in the LEOC management committee marks a crucial step in placing communities at the center of decision-making, thereby enhancing localization efforts.

The LEOC initiative will play a critical role in ensuring that early warnings and disaster response efforts reach the most vulnerable communities, ultimately contributing to a more disaster-resilient Nepal.