South al batinah: The national awareness campaign focusing on the risks associated with climatic conditions and tsunamis commenced today in the South Al Batinah Governorate. The initiative, operating under the motto "Your Awareness for Your Safety," is set to extend over three days. It was inaugurated by Eng. Masoud Said Al Hashimi, the Governor of South Al Batinah, with the presence of numerous officials from both governmental and private sectors within the region.
According to Oman News Agency, the campaign is being organized by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), specifically the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Center, in collaboration with the National Committee for Emergency Management, the Ministry of Information, and the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. This initiative also involves coordination with the Office of the Governor of South Al Batinah and several ministries, including those of Education, Social Development, Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, and Health.
The campaign's objective is to enhance awareness among the community and relevant stakeholders about weather hazards, climatic conditions, and tsunami threats. It aims to improve public comprehension of the multi-hazard early warning system, provide cohesive guidance on emergency protocols, strengthen community resilience, and bolster individual capabilities to manage such events through practical exercises and structured activities.
The campaign covers the areas of A'Rustaq, Al Awabi, Nakhal, Wadi Al Ma'awil, Barka, and Al Musannah. It is directed towards representatives from both government and private sectors, civil society organizations, and charitable groups, offering them insights into optimal risk management practices for these natural phenomena. The campaign is structured around four key components: meetings and seminars, practical exercises, involvement in local activities, and the distribution of informative leaflets.
On its first day, the campaign featured lectures, working papers, and visual presentations that elaborated on the national emergency management framework in Oman, the operational protocols of the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Center, and safety measures during emergencies. Discussions also highlighted the role of dams in flood prevention and school safety procedures, with panel sessions involving various experts. Additionally, an exhibition was inaugurated at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in A'Rustaq, showcasing awareness booths aimed at introducing preventive measures and safe practices during emergencies. The exhibition will remain open for three days.
Abdullah Rashid Al Khaduri, the Director General of Meteorology, emphasized the urgent need for unified efforts and ongoing awareness campaigns due to the accelerating climate challenges observed globally. He remarked that the campaign is designed to convey clear and understandable scientific messages that promote preventive behavior across all societal segments, thereby aiding in risk reduction from various weather conditions.
He also highlighted the Authority's ongoing efforts to advance the meteorological and early warning systems by utilizing the latest international technologies to ensure the alerts' accuracy and responsiveness, ultimately safeguarding lives and property and enhancing readiness for various climatic events.