National Environmental Agency to Prepare Geological Hazard Maps for Three High-Risk Municipalities

The National Environmental Agency of Georgia has signed an agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to develop detailed geological hazard maps for three high-risk municipalities — Vani, Baghdati, and Kobuleti. The maps will cover geological threats such as landslides and mudflows.

As part of the process, the Geology Department of the agency will update the national geological hazard database, provide detailed descriptions of landslide zones, and produce zoning maps that classify risk areas.

This is the first time such large-scale mapping is being undertaken for these municipalities and is considered vital for both local infrastructure development and the work of professionals in related fields.

The first working session was held online and attended by Andrew Kosy, an international expert representing UNDP. Participants discussed data collection methods and other technical aspects necessary for creating the hazard maps.

The Geology Department specialists will first review archival and historical data, then conduct on-site field studies to assess the current geodynamic conditions and collect relevant information in each municipality.

This initiative is part of the project titled “Strengthening Climate Adaptation Capacity in Georgia – Phase II”, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

The project is embedded within a comprehensive climate resilience program, which aims to reduce the risk of climate-related disasters in Georgia. It is implemented jointly by the Government of Georgia and UNDP, with financial support from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), as well as from Georgia, Sweden, and Switzerland.