Role of Media in Generating Public Awareness in Disaster Risk Reduction

Media can play a positive role in Disaster Risk Reduction. It has an important and significant role to play especially in developing and large country like India where it can reach every nook and corner easily, timely and is also cost effective It is not only cost effective but also has a wide reach which can help in educating the people about preparedness and mitigation measures and thus help in reducing the impact of disasters. It can also play role in timely broadcasting of warnings and thus reducing the damages caused by the disasters and help in evacuating people to safer places and saving lives. Therefore, role of media is a very responsible. It acts like a bridge between Disaster Risk Reduction Planning organizations (Government or Private) and the public both before and after the disaster. In countries like India because of sheer size where it is difficult for the government agencies to reach every village, media with its reach can help in making people in every region aware of their vulnerabilities.