A regular meeting of the interagency working group on mudflow risk management was held on June 29. The working group was formed on the initiative of UNDP-GCF Armenia’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) project in 2020.

In Armenia mudflows are classified among the most disastrous phenomena and cause great damage to the population, settlements, structures, communications and agriculture. According to the data published by the government, about 30 of Armenia's territory is under the risk of mudflows. Material damages caused by mudflows to the population and socio-economic infrastructures amount to about 2.0-2.2 billion AMD annually.

The meeting aimed at discussing with representatives of Ministries of Emergency Situations, Environment (MOE), Territorial Administration and Infrastructures  (MTAI), Economy, Labor and Social Affairs, “Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center” SNCO of MOE, Water Committee of MTAI, the Statistical Committee and UNDP experts the comments and suggestions received on the proposal package of measures necessary to reduce mudflow risks, ensure preparedness, proper and timely response as well as efficient elimination of consequences.

Taking into account the periodicity of mudflows and damages caused to the economy, mudflow risk reduction and clarification of response procedures are key priorities especially in view of increasing intensity and frequency of hydro-meteorological hazards resulted by the climate change.

20 representatives of Ministries of Emergency Situations, Environment (MOE), Territorial Administration and Infrastructures  (MTAI), Economy, Labor and Social Affairs, “Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center” SNCO of MOE, Water Committee of MTAI, the Statistical Committee and UNDP. attended online and participated in the meeting.