QB Answers
QB Answers
Manish ma’am
➢ The concept of preparedness planning is very important for those involved in disaster
management. During an actual emergency, quick and effective action is required. This action
often depends on having made and implemented preparedness plans. If appropriate action is
not taken or if the response is delayed, lives may be needlessly lost. In a preliminary plan, even
though the details of a disaster remain uncertain, you can identify emergency shelter sites,
plan and publicise evacuation routes, identify emergency water sources, determine chains of
command and communication procedures, train response personnel and educate people
about what to do in case of an emergency. All of these measures will go a long way to
improving the quality, timing and effectiveness of the response to a disaster.
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activities aimed at ensuring timely disaster preparation and effective emergency response. The
actual planning process is preliminary in nature and is performed in a state of uncertainty until
an actual emergency or disaster occurs. The aim of preparedness planning is to identify
assignments and specific activities covering organisational and technical issues to ensure that
response systems function successfully in the event of a disaster. The ultimate objective is not
to write a plan but to stimulate on-going interaction between parties, which may result in
written, usable agreements. The written plan is an instrument, but not the main goal of the
planning process. Annex 2 provides a sample outline of a National Society disaster
preparedness plan.
1) Safeguarding, maintaining and restoring the health and wellbeing of communities. These are
the highest priorities for emergency preparedness. Improving the state of individual,
community, and national health security in every country, and particularly in higher-risk, low-
capacity countries, contributes to global health security and helps raise the level of health
security for all.
2) Communities are critical to effective emergency management. Community members are the
first responders – and the first victims – of any emergency and, as such, essential members of
the preparedness process. They should be represented in all activities around developing and
implementing plans for emergency preparedness.
3) Preparedness requires sustained political commitment, partnerships, and funding. The
management of emergencies by authorities, including governments, often has significant
political dimensions. Political leadership and attention, combined with strong community and
national ownership, should be accorded to preparedness in a sustained manner, just like
funding. Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility that requires coordination
between communities and national and international actors. It also necessitates effective
partnerships between public and private actors, civil society, donors, technical agencies and
operational entities.
4) Achieving emergency preparedness has a cost, but this is an investment in health, safety,
security and development. Sustained funding should be aligned with costed, prioritized
preparedness measures based on risk and capacity assessments.
5) Health systems and emergency preparedness reinforce one another, and along with other
systems contribute to the resilience of communities and countries. A focus on systems is
extremely important to emergency preparedness, because it is not only specific activities and
actors that are needed to build stronger systems, but also the right relationships between
them. Strong human and animal health and other societal systems are the foundations of
emergency preparedness. Conversely, emergency preparedness builds the resilience of these
systems.
6) emergency preparedness should be addressed with an all-hazards approach. Many elements
of emergency preparedness are common to all hazards, and plans for emergency
preparedness should be designed to incorporate them. There is also a need for hazard specific
emergency preparedness measures based on risk assessments, and these should build on and
supplement all-hazard plans as appropriate.
7) A risk management approach underpins the assessment, planning and implementation of
emergency management actions including prevention and mitigation of risks, preparedness
activities, coordinated response, and recovery and reconstruction. Emergency risk
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management should continue to emphasize prevention measures to avoid hazards and reduce
vulnerability.
8) A whole-of-society approach is critical for emergency preparedness. Addressing the health
dimensions of emergency preparedness requires the health system to interact with other
government sectors at all levels of the national system; the commercial sector; and civil
society, including non-governmental and community organizations.
➢ Several methods and technologies can help predict disasters to enhance preparedness:
1. Early warning systems: Implementing early warning systems for events like hurricanes,
tsunamis, and floods can provide advance notice to communities, enabling them to evacuate
or take protective measures.
2. Monitoring systems: Using monitoring systems, such as seismographs, weather satellites, and
river gauges, to track environmental conditions and detect potential threats can help predict
disasters.
3. Risk assessments: Conducting risk assessments to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities
in a region can help predict the likelihood and potential impact of disasters.
4. Modelling and simulation: Using computer models and simulations to forecast the behaviour
of natural phenomena, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, can help predict disasters and plan
for their impacts.
5. Historical data analysis: Analysing historical data on past disasters can help identify patterns
and trends that can be used to predict future events.
6. Community involvement: Engaging communities in disaster preparedness efforts can help
gather local knowledge and enhance early warning systems.
➢ The purpose of early warning systems is to detect, forecast, and when necessary, issue alerts
related to impending hazard events.
➢ In order to fulfil a risk reduction function, however, early warning needs to be supported by
information about the actual and potential risks that a hazard poses, as well as the measures
people can take to prepare for and mitigate its adverse impacts.
➢ Early warning information needs to be communicated in such a way that facilitates decision
making and timely action of response organisations and vulnerable groups (Maskrey 1997).
➢ Cyclone Warning, Andhra Pradesh, India: Government officials were able to implement a
previously planned programme to evacuate 600,000 people from the path of an approaching
cyclone within 40 hours. This was possible because the results of meteorological forecasts and
warnings were communicated through a combination of advanced and traditional channels to
people conversant with the preparedness plan from earlier community exercises. Fatalities
numbered less than one-tenth of the more than 10,000 people who perished in a similar
cyclone 13 years before. At that time in the same location, neither warning, communications,
nor local response capacities were as well established. (UN, 1995).
➢ For example, in September 1994, in Papua New Guinea, on the island of New Britain,
community elders who had survived the Rabaul volcanic eruption of 1937, noticed and acted
upon several strange "early warning" phenomena that were similar to those that preceded the
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1937 eruption. This phenomenon included: "ground shaking vertically instead of horizontally,
megapod birds suddenly abandoning their nests at the base of the volcano, dogs barking
continuously and scratching and sniffing the earth, and sea snakes crawling ashore."
6. What is the role of ICRC (international community of the red cross) for
the disaster preparedness, explain in detail.
➢ The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) plays a crucial role in disaster
preparedness through its humanitarian efforts around the world. Here's how the ICRC
contributes to disaster preparedness:
1) Disaster Response Training: The ICRC provides training to staff and volunteers in disaster-
prone areas to enhance their preparedness and response capabilities. This includes training
in first aid, emergency response, and disaster management.
2) Early Warning Systems: The ICRC supports the development and implementation of early
warning systems in disaster-prone areas to alert communities and authorities about
impending disasters, enabling timely evacuation and preparedness measures.
3) Capacity Building: The ICRC works with local communities, governments, and humanitarian
organizations to strengthen their capacity to respond to disasters. This includes building
infrastructure, such as hospitals and emergency shelters, and providing equipment and
supplies.
4) Coordination: The ICRC coordinates with local authorities, humanitarian organizations, and
other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters. This includes
sharing information, resources, and expertise to maximize the impact of relief efforts.
5) Advocacy and Awareness: The ICRC advocates for policies and practices that promote
disaster preparedness and resilience. This includes raising awareness about the importance
of preparedness and encouraging governments and organizations to prioritize disaster risk
reduction.
6) Community Engagement: The ICRC engages with communities to understand their needs and
priorities, and to involve them in decision-making processes related to disaster
preparedness. This participatory approach helps ensure that preparedness efforts are
contextually relevant and sustainable.
➢ Information plays a critical role in all phases of disaster management, including preparedness,
response, recovery, and mitigation.
➢ Early Warning and Preparedness: Timely and accurate information is crucial for early warning
systems to alert communities about impending disasters. This information helps communities
prepare and take preventive actions to minimize the impact of disasters.
➢ Risk Assessment: Information is used to assess the risks and vulnerabilities of communities
and infrastructure to various hazards. This helps in identifying areas that are at high risk and
prioritizing resources for mitigation and preparedness measures.
➢ Response and Coordination: During a disaster, information is essential for coordinating
response efforts. It helps in mobilizing resources, deploying emergency teams, and ensuring
that assistance reaches those in need promptly.
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➢ Decision-Making: Information provides the basis for decision-making at all levels of disaster
management. It helps authorities and responders make informed decisions about evacuation,
resource allocation, and other critical actions.
➢ Communication and Public Awareness: Information is used to communicate with the public
and raise awareness about disaster risks, preparedness measures, and response procedures.
This helps in ensuring that people know how to protect themselves and their families during
a disaster.
➢ Recovery and Reconstruction: Information is crucial for assessing the damage caused by a
disaster and planning for recovery and reconstruction efforts. It helps in prioritizing needs,
allocating resources, and monitoring progress.
➢ Learning and Improvement: Information collected during and after a disaster is used for
learning and improving future disaster management strategies. Lessons learned from past
disasters help in strengthening preparedness and response mechanisms.
➢ Information, Education, Communication, and Training (IECT) play a crucial role in disaster
preparedness by enhancing awareness, knowledge, and skills among individuals,
communities, and organizations. Here's how each component contributes to disaster
preparedness:
1) Information: Providing accurate and timely information about potential hazards, risks, and
preparedness measures is essential for increasing awareness and enabling individuals and
communities to make informed decisions. Information can be disseminated through various
channels, such as mass media, social media, community meetings, and educational materials.
2) Education: Education plays a key role in enhancing understanding of disaster risks and
preparedness measures. By educating individuals and communities about the causes and
effects of disasters, as well as the importance of preparedness, education can empower people
to take proactive steps to protect themselves and others.
3) Communication: Effective communication is critical during all phases of a disaster, from
preparedness to response and recovery. Communication channels should be established and
maintained to ensure that accurate information is shared quickly and efficiently with all
stakeholders. This includes communication between government agencies, humanitarian
organizations, communities, and individuals.
4) Training: Training programs are essential for building the skills and capacity needed to respond
effectively to disasters. Training can include first aid, search and rescue techniques, disaster
management, and other relevant skills. By providing training opportunities, IECT can help
ensure that individuals and organizations are prepared to respond to disasters in a timely and
effective manner.
1) Information: Providing accurate and timely information about potential hazards, risks, and
preparedness measures is essential for increasing awareness and enabling individuals and
communities to make informed decisions. Strategies for information dissemination include:
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10. Enlist the role of government, international and NGO bodies for disaster
preparedness.
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❖ Community Engagement: NGOs work closely with communities to raise awareness about
disaster risks and preparedness measures. They involve local residents in planning and
decision-making processes to ensure that preparedness efforts are contextually relevant and
sustainable.
❖ Capacity Building: NGOs provide training and support to local communities, organizations, and
government agencies to enhance their capacity to respond to disasters. This includes training
in first aid, search and rescue techniques, and disaster management.
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❖ Advocacy: NGOs advocate for policies and practices that promote disaster preparedness and
resilience. They raise awareness about the importance of disaster risk reduction among
policymakers, donors, and the public.
❖ Emergency Response: NGOs play a key role in emergency response efforts, providing
immediate assistance to affected populations. They often have networks and resources in
place to respond quickly and effectively to disasters.
❖ Coordination: NGOs coordinate with government agencies, international organizations, and
other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters. They share
information, resources, and expertise to maximize the impact of relief efforts.
❖ Research and Innovation: NGOs support research and innovation in disaster preparedness,
developing new technologies, tools, and approaches to enhance resilience and reduce risk.
❖ Recovery and Reconstruction: NGOs provide support for recovery and reconstruction efforts
following disasters. They work with communities to rebuild infrastructure, restore services,
and support livelihoods.
➢ NGOs work closely with communities to raise awareness about disaster risks and preparedness
measures. They involve local residents in planning and decision-making processes to ensure
that preparedness efforts are contextually relevant and sustainable.
➢ NGOs provide training and support to local communities, organizations, and government
agencies to enhance their capacity to respond to disasters. This includes training in first aid,
search and rescue techniques, and disaster management.
➢ NGOs advocate for policies and practices that promote disaster preparedness and resilience.
They raise awareness about the importance of disaster risk reduction among policymakers,
donors, and the public.
➢ NGOs play a key role in emergency response efforts, providing immediate assistance to
affected populations. They often have networks and resources in place to respond quickly and
effectively to disasters.
➢ NGOs coordinate with government agencies, international organizations, and other
stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and effective response to disasters. They share
information, resources, and expertise to maximize the impact of relief efforts.
➢ NGOs support research and innovation in disaster preparedness, developing new
technologies, tools, and approaches to enhance resilience and reduce risk.
➢ NGOs provide support for recovery and reconstruction efforts following disasters. They work
with communities to rebuild infrastructure, restore services, and support livelihoods.
12. What are the 3 ways that non-profit & NGOs can build resilience in the
face of disaster preparedness.
1) Community Engagement and Empowerment: NPOs and NGOs can engage with communities
to raise awareness about disaster risks and preparedness measures. By involving local
residents in planning and decision-making processes, organizations can empower
communities to take ownership of their preparedness efforts. This can include training
community members in first aid, search and rescue techniques, and disaster response
planning.
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2) Capacity Building: NPOs and NGOs can build the capacity of local organizations, government
agencies, and community groups to respond effectively to disasters. This can include providing
training in disaster management, developing early warning systems, and establishing
communication networks. By building local capacity, organizations can ensure a more
coordinated and effective response to disasters.
3) Partnerships and Collaboration: NPOs and NGOs can collaborate with other organizations,
government agencies, and international partners to enhance their disaster preparedness
efforts. By working together, organizations can share resources, expertise, and best practices
to build resilience in the face of disasters. This can include developing joint projects, sharing
information and data, and coordinating response efforts during emergencies.
➢ Integrate DRR considerations into national and local development plans, policies, and
strategies. This includes ensuring that infrastructure development, land-use planning, and
environmental management take into account disaster risks.
➢ Invest in resilient infrastructure that can withstand disasters and contribute to sustainable
development. This includes infrastructure that is designed to be flexible, adaptable, and
environmentally friendly.
➢ Protect and restore ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and mangroves, which can provide
natural defences against disasters. Promoting ecosystem-based approaches to DRR can
enhance resilience and contribute to sustainable development goals.
➢ Strengthen governance structures and institutions responsible for DRR and SD. This includes
promoting multi-stakeholder collaboration, enhancing coordination between government
agencies, and ensuring accountability and transparency in decision-making processes.
➢ Empower communities to take ownership of their resilience-building efforts. This includes
providing access to information, resources, and training to enable communities to prepare for
and respond to disasters.
➢ Raise awareness about disaster risks and the importance of DRR among policymakers,
practitioners, and the general public. Invest in education and training programs to build the
capacity of individuals and communities to reduce disaster risks.
➢ Invest in research and innovation to develop new technologies, tools, and approaches for DRR
and SD. Foster collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to ensure
that DRR efforts are evidence-based and innovative.
❖ Early Warning Systems: IT is used to develop and maintain early warning systems for natural
disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and floods. These systems use sensors,
satellite imagery, and data analysis to detect potential disasters and provide early warnings to
at-risk communities.
❖ Communication and Coordination: IT facilitates communication and coordination among
emergency responders, government agencies, NGOs, and affected communities during
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disasters. Communication tools such as mobile phones, social media, and messaging apps
enable real-time information sharing and coordination of response efforts.
❖ Data Collection and Analysis: IT enables the collection, analysis, and visualization of data
related to disaster risks, vulnerabilities, and impacts. This data helps in identifying high-risk
areas, developing risk reduction strategies, and allocating resources effectively.
❖ Disaster Response Planning: IT is used to develop and implement disaster response plans,
including evacuation routes, shelter locations, and resource mobilization strategies.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used to map out these plans and identify critical
infrastructure.
❖ Resource Management: IT systems are used to manage and track resources such as food,
water, medical supplies, and personnel during disaster response operations. This ensures that
resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to meet the needs of affected populations.
❖ Public Awareness and Education: IT is used to raise public awareness about disaster risks and
preparedness measures. Websites, mobile apps, and social media campaigns are used to
disseminate information and educate the public about how to prepare for and respond to
disasters.
❖ Remote Monitoring and Assessment: IT enables remote monitoring and assessment of
disaster-affected areas, allowing responders to gather real-time information about the
situation on the ground without putting themselves at risk.
❖ Designing and implementing infrastructure: Engineers design and build infrastructure such as
buildings, bridges, and roads to withstand natural disasters. This includes ensuring structures
meet building codes and standards for seismic activity, hurricanes, floods, etc.
❖ Developing early warning systems: Engineers work on developing and maintaining early
warning systems that can detect and alert people about impending disasters, such as
tsunamis, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
❖ Creating evacuation plans: Engineers collaborate with emergency management teams to
create evacuation plans for communities in high-risk areas, ensuring efficient and safe
evacuation routes.
❖ Ensuring critical infrastructure resilience: Engineers work to ensure that critical
infrastructure, such as power plants, hospitals, and water treatment facilities, are resilient to
disasters and can continue to operate during and after an event.
❖ Designing resilient communication systems: Engineers design communication systems that
are resilient to disasters, ensuring that emergency services can communicate effectively
during and after a disaster.
❖ Developing disaster-resistant materials: Engineers research and develop materials that can
withstand disasters, such as earthquake-resistant building materials or flood-resistant
barriers.
❖ Educating the public: Engineers play a role in educating the public about disaster
preparedness and safety measures, such as how to secure furniture during an earthquake or
how to create a family emergency plan.
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Mitali ma’am
❖ Earthquakes: Sudden shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates
beneath the Earth's surface. They can result in widespread destruction, tsunamis, and
landslides.
❖ Floods: Overflow of water onto normally dry land, often caused by heavy rainfall, hurricanes,
or tsunamis. Floods can lead to extensive damage to property and infrastructure, as well as
loss of life.
❖ Hurricanes/Cyclones/Typhoons: Intense tropical storms with strong winds and heavy rainfall.
They can cause widespread damage to buildings, infrastructure, and agriculture, as well as
storm surges and flooding.
❖ Tornadoes: Violently rotating columns of air extending from thunderstorms to the ground.
They can cause significant damage to buildings and vehicles in their path.
❖ Volcanic Eruptions: The eruption of molten rock, ash, and gases from volcanoes can lead to
lava flows, ash fall, and pyroclastic flows, impacting nearby communities and environments.
➢ Man-Made Disasters:
❖ Industrial Accidents: Chemical spills, explosions, and other accidents in industrial facilities can
result in environmental contamination, injuries, and loss of life.
❖ Nuclear Accidents: Malfunctions or disasters at nuclear power plants can lead to radiation
leaks, environmental contamination, and health risks for nearby populations.
❖ Terrorist Attacks: Deliberate acts of violence, including bombings, shootings, and biological
attacks, intended to cause harm, fear, and disruption.
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❖ Transportation Accidents: Plane crashes, train derailments, and other accidents involving
transportation vehicles can result in casualties, injuries, and damage to infrastructure.
❖ Infrastructure Failures: Structural collapses, dam failures, and other failures in critical
infrastructure can lead to significant damage and disruption.
➢ Cyclones/Hurricanes/Typhoons:
• Warm Ocean Waters: Cyclones form over warm ocean waters, where the heat and
moisture from the water fuel the storm's development.
• Low Pressure Systems: A pre-existing low-pressure system can become a cyclone when it
interacts with the warm ocean waters and atmospheric conditions are favorable.
• Coriolis Effect: The rotation of the Earth causes cyclones to spin and organize into a
circular pattern, with winds rotating counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and
clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
➢ Tsunamis:
• Underwater Earthquakes: Tsunamis are often triggered by underwater earthquakes,
where the sudden movement of tectonic plates displaces a large volume of water.
• Volcanic Eruptions: Volcanic eruptions, especially those that occur underwater or near
coastlines, can also generate tsunamis by displacing water.
➢ Landslides:
• Heavy Rainfall or Snowmelt: Excessive moisture from heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt
can saturate the soil, reducing its stability and increasing the likelihood of landslides.
• Slope Instability: Steep slopes, deforestation, and other factors can weaken the soil and
make it more prone to landslides.
• Earthquakes: Seismic activity can destabilize slopes and trigger landslides.
➢ The impacts of natural disasters like floods, cyclones, tsunamis, and landslides can be wide-
ranging and devastating.
❖ Loss of Life: Natural disasters can cause significant loss of life, especially in densely populated
areas or where warning systems are lacking.
❖ Injuries: Many people may suffer injuries during natural disasters, ranging from minor cuts
and bruises to more serious injuries requiring medical attention.
❖ Displacement: People may be forced to evacuate their homes due to flooding, cyclones, or
landslides, leading to temporary or long-term displacement.
❖ Damage to Infrastructure: Natural disasters can cause extensive damage to buildings, roads,
bridges, and other infrastructure, disrupting transportation and communication networks.
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❖ Economic Losses: The destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure can result in
significant economic losses for affected communities and regions.
❖ Environmental Damage: Natural disasters can cause environmental damage, such as
deforestation, soil erosion, and contamination of water sources.
❖ Disruption of Services: Natural disasters can disrupt essential services such as water supply,
electricity, and healthcare, further exacerbating the impact on affected communities.
❖ Psychological Impact: Natural disasters can have a lasting psychological impact on survivors,
leading to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
❖ Impact on Agriculture: Flooding, cyclones, and other natural disasters can damage crops and
livestock, leading to food shortages and loss of livelihoods for farmers.
❖ Long-Term Recovery: The recovery process following a natural disaster can be long and
challenging, requiring significant resources and support from governments, NGOs, and the
international community.
1. During the buildup to the spill, the plant’s safety mechanisms for the highly toxic MIC were
not working. The alarm off tanks of the plant had not worked properly.
2. Many valves and lines were in disrepair, and many vent gas scrubbers were not working,
as was the steam boiler that was supposed to clean the pipes.
3. The MIC was stored in three tanks, with tank E610 being the source of the leak. This tank
should have held no more than 30 tonnes of MIC, according to safety regulations.
4. Water is believed to have entered the tank through a side pipe as technicians were
attempting to clear it late that fatal night.
5. This resulted in an exothermic reaction in the tank, progressively raising the pressure until
the gas was ejected through the atmosphere.
❖ The physical vulnerability of an area also depends on its geographic proximity to the source
and origin of the disasters e.g. if an area lies near the coast lines, fault lines, unstable hills etc.
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or/an area, in case of disasters. Furthermore, the lack of proper planning and implementation
in construction of residential and commercial buildings results in buildings that are weaker and
vulnerable in earthquakes, floods, landslides and other hazards.
➢ Economic Vulnerability
❖ Economic vulnerability of a community can be assessed by determining how varied its sources
of income are, the ease of access and control over means of production (e.g. farmland,
livestock, irrigation, capital etc.), adequacy of economic fall-back mechanisms and the
availability of natural resources in the area.
➢ Social Vulnerability
❖ A socially vulnerable community has weak family structures, lack of leadership for decision
making and conflict resolution, unequal participation in decision making, weak or no
community organizations, and the one in which people are discriminated on racial, ethnic,
linguistic or religious basis.
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➢ Attitudinal Vulnerability
❖ e.g. poor design and construction of buildings, unregulated land use planning, etc.
❖ From transportation infrastructure such as roads, railways, ports, airports, and inland
waterways, vital transport resources are encountering unprecedented challenges due to an
already shifting climate. Despite this, the adaptation of transportation systems to the
escalating risks posed by climate change has received limited attention. To bridge this gap, the
UNECE (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe) has published a pioneering study
that identifies critical sections of the primary inland transport networks and nodes in the Pan-
European region and Canada, where the potential impact of climate risks is likely to grow.
➢ Social factors
❖ e.g. poverty and inequality, marginalization, social exclusion and discrimination by gender,
social status, disability and age (amongst other factors) psychological factors, etc.
❖ Elderly individuals (aged 65 and above) are considered particularly susceptible to the effects
of extreme temperatures. Both direct and indirect consequences of heatwaves and cold waves
are linked to an increased prevalence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, impacting the
mortality and morbidity rates among older adults. While many current definitions and
assessments of vulnerability focus on general risks for the elderly, only a few delve into specific
issues related to hot or cold weather.
❖ A team of researchers employed an asset-based approach to create a General Vulnerability
Index, which aims to identify the day-to-day vulnerabilities of older adults. This approach
considers a wide range of human, financial, physical, place-based, and social assets, including
health status, quality of life, education level, age of residence, access to public services, and
more.
➢ Economic factors
❖ e.g. the uninsured informal sector, vulnerable rural livelihoods, dependence on single
industries, globalization of business and supply chains, etc.
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❖ As globalization becomes more prevalent, countries have increasingly depended on each other
through a complex and interconnected food supply chain. The global pandemic caused by
COVID-19, has underscored the vulnerability of this interconnection, exposing the entire
process of bringing food from farms to people's tables worldwide to potential disruptions. A
study has investigated strategies to ensure the resilience of food supply chains in the face of
environmental shocks and has identified crucial areas for future research.
➢ Environmental factors
iii. NDMA has conducted pre-monsoon meetings, briefing/debriefing sessions and issued
instructions/advisories to all stakeholders.
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v. NDMA runs awareness generation campaign on various disasters through television, Radio
& social media.
vi. During India’s G-20 Presidency, NDMA steered the constitution of a G20 Working Group
on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).
vii. NDMA has developed a Web Based Dynamic Composite Risk Atlas & Decision Support
System (Web DCRA& DSS) tool for Cyclone impacts forecasting covering all the 13 Coastal
States and Union Territories.
➢ It includes:
• Infrastructure: The presence of well-built structures, such as hospitals, schools, roads,
bridges, and evacuation centers, can enhance a community's ability to withstand and
respond to disasters. For example, a region with robust flood control infrastructure, such
as dams and levees, can reduce the impact of flooding.
• Emergency Services: The availability and accessibility of emergency services like fire
departments, paramedics, and search and rescue teams contribute to effective disaster
response. These services are essential for timely rescue operations and medical assistance.
• Communication Systems: Reliable communication systems, such as telecommunication
networks, emergency broadcast systems, and community radio, facilitate the
dissemination of warnings, coordination of response efforts, and communication between
affected areas and response agencies.
2) Social Capacity
➢ Social capacity includes the interpersonal and intrapersonal links in the community, relations
and motivations among the people and the amount of interaction between people.
➢ It includes
• Community Networks: Strong social networks and community organizations enhance
disaster resilience. These networks facilitate information sharing, cooperation, and mutual
support during emergencies. For example, a neighborhood watch group can quickly
mobilize resources and assist in evacuation efforts.
• Social Cohesion: High levels of trust, cooperation, and solidarity within a community
enhance its ability to respond collectively to disasters. Communities with established
social cohesion are better equipped to share resources, support vulnerable members, and
recover together.
• Community Participation: Engaged and active community members who participate in
decision-making processes and contribute to disaster planning and response efforts
strengthen social capacity. Their involvement ensures that local knowledge, needs, and
priorities are considered.
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3) Economic Capacity
➢ Economics capacity comprises of the income of the community or an area, their savings,
earnings, production, business activities and availability of jobs and livelihoods.
➢ It includes:
• Financial Resources: Adequate financial resources at the community, organizational, and
governmental levels enable investment in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
Access to emergency funds, insurance coverage, and contingency budgets can enhance
the ability to allocate resources effectively.
• Diverse Livelihoods: Communities with diverse and resilient economic activities are better
positioned to recover from disasters. A mix of industries and employment opportunities
can help absorb shocks and reduce the vulnerability of livelihoods.
• Local Economic Systems: The existence of local markets, businesses, and supply chains
plays a vital role in post-disaster recovery. These systems contribute to the availability of
goods, services, and employment opportunities in the aftermath of a disaster.
4) Attitudinal Capacity
➢ People fight and resist against plans and strategies that are not in line with their culture,
ideology or religion and this can limit their capacity and increase their vulnerability to
disasters.
➢ It includes:
• Awareness and Knowledge: Individuals and communities with awareness and
understanding of disaster risks, preparedness measures, and response protocols are
better equipped to respond effectively. Education and training programs play a crucial role
in building attitudinal capacity.
• Risk Perception and Preparedness: Recognizing and perceiving the risks, vulnerabilities,
and potential impacts of disasters motivate individuals and communities to take proactive
steps in preparedness. This includes developing emergency plans, assembling disaster
supply kits, and participating in evacuation drills.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, learn from
past experiences, and recover quickly contributes to attitudinal capacity. Resilient
attitudes and behaviors involve embracing innovation, accepting change, and being open
to new ideas.
10. Discuss the application of various engineering filed like E.C., A.I.,
Chemical, electrical.
11. Enlist type of resilience and how can we build resilience and prevent
disaster impact.
➢ Resilience building needs to consider the fact that several shocks and stresses may occur
together. Characteristics of a resilient system include:
• High level of diversity in terms of access to assets, inclusion in decision-making and the
availability of economic opportunities
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• Level of connectivity between institutions and organizations at different scales and the
extent of information, knowledge, evaluation and learning sharing up, down and across
these scales
• Blended forms of knowledge used to anticipate and manage change
• Level of redundancy allowing areas to fail without leading to the whole system collapse
(similar to the concept of residual risk)
• Equal and inclusive balanced distribution of risks
• Social cohesion and capital allowing individuals to be supported within social structures
➢ Therefore, building resilience should include policies and practices that enhance each of these
characteristics. One approach to resilience is to begin with effective risk management, since
their strong similarities between risk and resilience as frameworks, which:
• Provide a holistic framework for assessing systems and their interaction, from the
household and communities through to the sub-national and national level
• Emphasize capacities to manage hazards or disturbances
• Help to explore options for dealing with uncertainty, surprises and changes
• Focus on being proactive
➢ Five major requirements of being a disaster resilient society are the ability to:
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Payal ma’am
➢ Physical
• Injuries
• Death
• Physical disability
• Burns
• Epidemic
• Weakness/uneasiness
• Physical illness
• Sanitation
• Miscarriage
• Reproductive health
• Fatigue, Loss of Sleep
• Loss of Appetite
➢ Social
• Change in individual’s role
• Disruption of social fabric
• Isolation
• Change in marital status
• Sexual abuse & domestic violence
• Orphans
• Single parent children
• Family & social disorganization
• Migration
• Life style changes
• Breakdown of traditional Social Status
➢ Economical
• Loss of life
• Unemployment
• Loss of Livelihood
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• Loss of property/Land
• Loss of household articles
• Loss of crops
• Loss of Public Infrastructure
➢ Phycological
• Distress
• Flash backs
• Intrusion/Avoidance
• Hatred/Revenge
• Dependence/Insecurity
• Grief/Withdrawn/Isolation
• Guilt feeling
• Hyper vigilance
• Lack of trust
• Helplessness
• Hopelessness
1) Surface Rupture: The movement along fault lines during an earthquake can cause the ground
to rupture at the surface. This can alter the landscape, affecting vegetation, soil, and
watercourses.
2) Landslides: Earthquakes can trigger landslides, which can result in the displacement of soil,
rocks, and debris. Landslides can damage ecosystems, block rivers, and pose additional
hazards to human settlements.
3) Ground Shaking: The shaking of the ground during an earthquake can lead to the destruction
of vegetation, toppling of trees, and damage to wildlife habitats. This can disrupt ecosystems
and alter the natural balance in affected areas.
4) Soil Liquefaction: In certain conditions, seismic activity can cause saturated soil to behave like
a liquid, a phenomenon known as soil liquefaction. This can lead to the sinking or tilting of
structures, affecting both human infrastructure and natural landscapes.
5) Aftershocks: The aftershocks that follow a major earthquake can further impact the
environment by causing additional ground shaking, landslides, and surface ruptures.
6) Tsunamis: Underwater earthquakes can generate tsunamis, massive ocean waves that can
inundate coastal areas. Tsunamis can cause significant damage to coastal ecosystems,
including coral reefs, mangroves, and coastal wetlands.
7) Changes in Water Tables: Earthquakes can alter the flow and level of groundwater, affecting
water tables and potentially leading to changes in natural water systems.
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9) Fires: Earthquakes can trigger fires, either through the rupture of gas lines or by other means.
These fires can result in the destruction of vegetation and habitats.
10) Human Activities: The response to earthquakes, including rescue and recovery efforts,
construction of temporary shelters, and disposal of debris, can also have environmental
impacts. For example, improper disposal of debris can lead to pollution and habitat disruption.
➢ The highest number of floods was reported from the state of Bihar, followed by West Bengal,
Assam, Manipur and Tripura.
➢ Over the 25 years studied, droughts hit 33 of India’s 36 states and union territories. Andhra
Pradesh, Telangana and Rajasthan suffered droughts more than 15 times during this period.
Karnataka, Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Odisha faced droughts over 10 times.
➢ Heatwaves affected 27 states and union territories. The highest number occurred in Odisha,
followed by Maharashtra, West Bengal and Rajasthan.
➢ Eleven states were hit by cyclones during these years. Andhra Pradesh experienced the highest
number, followed by Tamil Nadu, Odisha and West Bengal. Looking more closely, the South 24
Parganas district in West Bengal – home of the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove
forest – suffered more cyclones than any other district in India.
4. Climate change.
➢ It is defined as any change in the climate over time that directly and indirectly affects humans
and their activities as well as natural systems and processes.
➢ Play an important role in causing weather related disaster and making community more
vulnerable to the effects of the disaster.
➢ Increase in sea and air temperature, changes in the speed and direction of wind and sea waves,
variation in precipitation patterns etc.
➢ Affects the disaster risks in two ways, increase in weather and climate hazards and secondary
through increase in vulnerability of communities to natural hazards particularly through
ecosystem degradation, reduction in food and water availability and changes to livelihoods.
➢ Over the last two decades, 76 % of all disaster events were hydrological, meteorological or
climatologically in nature.
➢ Higher temperature and decreased precipitation have increased the dried condition.
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5. Hazard locations.
1) Hazard Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive hazard assessment to identify the types of
hazards that pose a risk to your area. These hazards can include natural disasters such as
earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, wildfires, as well as human-made hazards like industrial
accidents, chemical spills, and terrorist threats. Utilize historical data, scientific studies, and
local knowledge to understand the frequency, severity, and impact of different hazards in
your region.
2) GIS Mapping: Utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to map hazard-prone
areas. GIS software allows you to overlay different data layers such as topography, land use,
population density, and historical hazard events to identify high-risk zones. Analyze spatial
patterns and correlations to pinpoint specific locations that are vulnerable to different types
of hazards.
3) Community Input: Engage with local communities, stakeholders, and experts to gather
insights into hazard locations based on their firsthand experiences and knowledge. Conduct
community surveys, workshops, or focus groups to identify areas of concern and potential
hazard hotspots.
6) Regulatory Mapping: Review and incorporate regulatory maps and zoning ordinances that
designate hazard-prone areas or impose restrictions on development in certain zones.
Consult with local planning departments and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with
land-use regulations and building codes designed to mitigate hazards.
7) Remote Sensing and Satellite Imagery: Use remote sensing techniques and satellite imagery
to detect changes in the landscape, monitor environmental conditions, and identify hazard
indicators such as erosion, deforestation, or land subsidence. Analyze imagery to identify
trends and patterns that may indicate emerging hazards or changes in risk over time.
8) Risk Modeling and Analysis: Employ risk modeling and analysis tools to quantify the potential
impact of hazards on different locations and populations. Conduct scenario-based risk
assessments to evaluate the consequences of various hazard scenarios and identify high-
priority areas for mitigation efforts. By combining these approaches, you can develop a
comprehensive understanding of hazard locations and prioritize mitigation strategies to
reduce risk and enhance resilience in your community or organization.
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➢ Rather than focusing only on what limits people's ability to reduce their risk, the policy
objective of disaster risk reduction (DRR) instead emphasizes understanding people's
capacity to resist and recover from disasters, as well as enhancing the overall resilience of
people, society and systems. The local and traditional knowledge vulnerable communities
possess to respond to disasters should form the basis of outside interventions to reduce
disaster risk.
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