Kerala Advances Tsunami Preparedness with UNESCO Certification Programme
Kerala Advances Tsunami Preparedness with UNESCO Certification Programme
IN · Published Sep 14, 2026
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), in collaboration with INCOIS and UNESCO, has been implementing the Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme since
The initiative aims to enhance coastal resilience by ensuring timely dissemination of early warnings, empowering local governance for evacuation protocols, and preparing communities for intersecting marine hazards. Nine coastal panchayats across Kerala have been selected for the pilot programme, with support from higher education institutions for capacity building and evacuation planning. The programme also seeks to achieve formal UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready Recognition certification, creating a scalable model for other coastal villages in India.

Impact & Risks

The programme addresses vulnerabilities in Kerala's coastal regions, including high erosion, storm surge exposure, and historical tsunami impacts. By strengthening local governance and community preparedness, it aims to mitigate risks associated with tsunamis and other marine hazards such as monsoon swell surges and extreme sea-level events. Coastal populations in the selected panchayats, including densely populated fishing hamlets and low-lying areas, stand to benefit from improved safety measures and infrastructure.

Related News