A new initiative to reduce the risk of Natural Disasters in South Asia was launched in New Delhi today. Mayors from the cities of Delhi, Karachi, Colombo, Pune and Thimphu signed on a pledge on the opening ceremony of the two-day conference. The theme is making the cities resilient against Natural Disasters. Launching the initiative the Union Minister for Urban Development Jaipal Reddy said that building laws are being strengthened to ensure quake resistant material is used in new constructions and at the same time protect old structures. Mr. Reddy said special majors are being taken to minimize the impact of any disaster in the forthcoming Commonwealth Games. <br/>AIR correspondent reports around hundred Mayors and leaders of local self governments from South Asian countries are participating in the two days event organized by Ministry of Urban Development in collaboration with United Nations International strategy for Disaster reduction. Executive Director of National Institute of Disaster Management, P.G. Dhar Chakraborty said that South Asia is one of the most disaster-prone regions of the world and, therefore, it is important to create awareness among people about the measures to reduce the impact of disaster management, particularly in droughts, Earthquakes and floods. Deputy Director, United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, Hdena Molin Valdes said, more than 12 cities including Mexico, Durban and Bonn have already pledged to follow the UN Strategy. <br/>