Case Study Report
Disaster Management in Kerala Floods 2018
Course: OHS352 – Project Report Writing
Submitted by: Rakesh S.P
Register No: 950822104040
Table of Contents
1. Introduction & Background
2. Problem Statement
3. Methodology
4. Findings & Analysis
5. Critical Evaluation
6. Conclusion & Recommendations
1. Introduction & Background
The state of Kerala in India experienced one of the worst floods in its history during August
2018, caused by unusually high rainfall in the monsoon season. More than 5.4 million people
were affected, and over 400 lives were lost. The floods led to massive destruction of
infrastructure, agriculture, housing, and livelihoods.
This case study focuses on the disaster management mechanisms adopted during and after the
flood, examining their strengths and limitations. It also highlights the importance of disaster
preparedness, coordination among agencies, and the role of technology in crisis management.
Relevance in Engineering & Society:
● Engineers were instrumental in restoring transportation, electricity, and communication
systems.
● Disaster management has societal implications, including public safety, rehabilitation,
and sustainable rebuilding.
● The case provides lessons for urban planning, dam management, and climate-resilient
infrastructure.
2. Problem Statement
The core issue was the inadequate preparedness and management of flood waters during
record-breaking rainfall. The sudden opening of 35 dams aggravated flooding, leading to loss of
life and property.
Scope and Objectives:
● To study the disaster management strategies used in Kerala floods 2018.
● To analyze the coordination between government, NGOs, and local communities.
● To evaluate the role of technology, communication, and rescue systems.
● To identify gaps and propose recommendations for future disaster management.
3. Methodology
The case study is based on secondary data from government reports, news articles, and journal
papers. The following steps were undertaken:
1. Data Collection
o Reports from the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).
o NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) guidelines.
o Media coverage (The Hindu, Indian Express, BBC).
o Research papers from Elsevier, Springer, and IEEE on flood disaster response.
2. Analysis Tools
o SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats).
o Comparative study of Kerala floods vs. Chennai floods (2015).
o Use of charts to represent rainfall and displacement figures.
3. Frameworks Used
o Disaster Management Cycle: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, Recovery.
o Community Participation Model.
4. Findings & Analysis
4.1 Key Outcomes of Flood Management
● Rescue Operations: Over 82,000 rescues were carried out by the Army, Navy, NDRF,
and fisherfolk using boats.
● Relief Camps: Around 3,700 relief camps sheltered 1.4 million people.
● Technology Use: Google crisis maps, social media (Twitter, WhatsApp), and drones
aided rescue and relief efforts.
● Healthcare: Mobile medical units handled flood-borne diseases and trauma cases.
4.2 Charts/Graphs
Timeline Graph: Major events and impacts of Kerala Floods 2018.
Soil Erosion Graph: District-wise soil erosion rates before, during, and after floods.
4.3 SWOT Analysis
Strengths:
● Strong community participation.
● Efficient use of social media and volunteers.
● Rapid mobilization of defense forces.
Weaknesses:
● Poor dam management and lack of early warning systems.
● Insufficient drainage and urban planning.
● Dependency on external aid in some regions.
Opportunities:
● Use of AI/IoT for flood forecasting.
● Build climate-resilient infrastructure.
● Strengthen local disaster response units.
Threats:
● Climate change leading to extreme rainfall.
● Deforestation and illegal construction reducing natural drainage.
5. Critical Evaluation
The Kerala flood management response was praised globally for community-driven rescue
operations, especially the role of local fishermen known as “Kerala’s Navy.” However, delayed
decision-making in dam water release worsened the disaster.
Comparing with the 2015 Chennai floods, both disasters showed failures in urban planning and
drainage systems. However, Kerala’s use of digital platforms and volunteer engagement was
more effective.
6. Conclusion & Recommendations
Conclusion
The 2018 Kerala floods highlight both the power of community resilience and the
shortcomings in disaster preparedness. While rescue and relief operations saved millions, gaps
in planning, dam management, and infrastructure exposed vulnerabilities.
Recommendations
1. Integrated Flood Management System: AI-based early warning and real-time
monitoring of dams.
2. Community Disaster Training: Regular mock drills and awareness programs.
3. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Elevated housing, improved drainage, and flood-
resistant roads.
4. Policy Measures: Stricter urban planning regulations to prevent construction in flood-
prone areas.
5. Technology Integration: Use of GIS, IoT, and drones in disaster preparedness and
management.
