DISASTER MANAGEMENT

Dr Shruti Mathur

 The nature of management depends on local economic and social conditions. Some disaster relief experts such as Cuny, have long noted that the cycle of Emergency Management must include long-term work on infrastructure, public awareness, and even human justice issues. The process of Emergency Management involves four phases: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

Aims and Objectives of Disaster Management

Promoting a culture of prevention and preparedness by centre-staging DM as an overriding priority at all levels and at all times. Encouraging mitigation measures based on state-of-the-art technology and environmental sustainability. Mainstreaming DM concerns into the development planning process. Putting in place a streamlined institutional techno-legal framework in order to create and preserve the integrity of an enabling regulatory environment and a compliance regime. Developing contemporary forecasting and early warning systems backed by responsive and fail-safe communications and Information Technology (IT) support. Promoting a productive partnership with the Media, NGOs and the Corporate Sector in the areas of awareness generation and capacity development. Ensuring efficient response and relief with a caring humane approach towards the vulnerable sections of the society. Making reconstruction an opportunity to build back better and construct disasterresilient structures and habitats.

 Till recently, the approach to Disaster Management has been reactive and relief centric. A paradigm shift has now taken place at the national level from the relief centric syndrome to holistic and integrated approach with emphasis on prevention, mitigation and preparedness. These efforts are aimed to conserve developmental gains as also minimize losses to lives, livelihood and property. A typical Disaster Management continuum as shown below, comprising of six elements i.e., Prevention, Mitigation and Preparedness in pre-disaster phase, and Response, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in postdisaster phase, defines the complete approach to Disaster Management.

International organizations for Disaster Management

The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) is
a non-profit educational organization dedicated to promoting the goals of saving lives and protecting property during emergencies and disasters

The Air Force Emergency Management Association provides

emergency management information and networking for US Air Force Emergency Managers Red Cross/Red Crescent National Red Cross/Red Crescent societies often have pivotal roles in responding to emergencies.

United Nations World Bank European Union

International Recovery Platform

National organizations
In India, the role of emergency management falls to National Disaster Management Authority of India, a government agency subordinate to the Ministry of Home Affairs. In recent years there has been a shift in emphasis, from response and recovery to strategic risk management and reduction, and from a government-centered approach to decentralized community participation. The Ministry of Science and Technology supports an internal agency that facilitates research by bringing the academic knowledge and expertise of earth scientists to the emergency management process. A group representing a public/private partnership has recently been formed by the Government of India. It is funded primarily by a large India-based computer company, and aimed at improving the general response of communities to emergencies, in addition to those incidents which might be described as disasters. Some of the groups' early efforts involve the provision of emergency management training for first responders (a first in India), the creation of a single emergency telephone number, and the establishment of standards for EMS staff, equipment and training. Currently it operates in three states, though efforts are being made in making this a nation-wide effective group.

NDMA
The Logo reflects the aspirations of this National Vision, of empowering all stakeholders for improving the effectiveness of Disaster Management in India. The Map of India, embossed in Gold, in the middle of the logo, circumscribed by the National Tricolour of Saffron, White and Green represents the aspirations to contain the potential threat of natural and man-made disasters through Capacity Development of all Stakeholders. The Outer Circle is a Golden Ring of Partnership of all Stakeholders, whose holding of hands is an expression of their solidarity to supplement the efforts of the Government. NDMA in the Inner Circle in tranquil blue integrates the entire process by Empowering all Stakeholders at the local, district, state and national levels. NDMA will catalyse this Community Empowerment through institutional capacity development, strengthened public awareness and community resilience by mainstreaming disaster management in India. EMPOWERING STAKEHOLDERS FOR IMPROVING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT IN INDIA The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), headed by the Prime Minister of India, is the Apex Body for Disaster Management in India. The setting up of the NDMA and the creation of an enabling environment for institutional mechanisms at the State and District levels is mandated by the Disaster Management Act, 2005. India envisions the development of an ethos of Prevention, Mitigation and Preparedness and will strive to promote a National resolve to mitigate the damage and destruction caused by natural and man-made disasters, through sustained and collective efforts of all Government agencies, Non-Governmental Organisations and Peoples participation, by adopting a Technology-Driven, Pro-Active, Multi-Hazard and Multi-Sectoral Strategy for building a Safer, Disaster Resilient and Dynamic India.

 NATURAL DISASTERS Earthquake Floods River erosion Cyclone Tsunami Landslides Forest Fires

MAN-MADE DISASTERS Nuclear Chemical Mine Biological Cyber terrorism Environmental

An earthquake is a phenomenon that occurs without warning and involves violent shaking of the ground and everything over it. It results from the release of accumulated stress of the moving lithospheric or crustal plates. The earth's crust is divided into seven major plates, some 50 miles thick, which move slowly and continuously over the earth's interior and several minor plates. Earthquakes are tectonic in origin; that is the moving plates are responsible of the occurrence of the violent shaking. The occurrence of an earthquake in a populated area may cause numerous casualties and injuries and extensive property damage. Earthquake Risk in India India today has an increasing population and extensive unscientific constructions mushrooming all over, including multistoried luxury apartments, huge factory buildings, gigantic malls, supermarkets and warehouses and masonry buildings. India is thus at high risk. During the last 15 years, the country has experienced 10 major earthquakes that have resulted in over 20,000 deaths. As per the current seismic zone map of the country (IS 1893: 2002), over 59 per cent of Indias land area is under threat of moderate to severe seismic hazard, i.e., prone to shaking of MSK Intensity VII and above (BMTPC, 2006). In fact, the entire Himalayan belt is considered prone to great earthquakes of magnitude exceeding 8.0, and in a relatively short span of about 50 years, four such earthquakes have occurred: 1897 Shillong (M8.7), 1905 Kangra (M8.0), 1934 Bihar-Nepal (M8.3), and 1950 Assam-Tibet (M8.6). Scientific publications have warned of the likelihood of the occurrence of very severe earthquakes in the Himalayan region, which could adversely affect the lives of several million people in India. The increase in earthquake risk is also caused due to a spurt in developmental activities driven by urbanization, economic development and the globalization of Indias economy. The increase in the use of high -technology equipment and tools in manufacturing and service industries have also made them susceptible to disruption due to relatively moderate ground shaking. As a result, the loss of human life is not the only determinant of earthquake risk any more. Severe economic losses leading to the collapse of the local or regional economy after an earthquake may have long-term adverse consequences for the entire country. This effect would be further magnified if an earthquake affects a mega-city, such as Delhi or Mumbai.

The regions of the country away from the Himalayas and other inter-plate boundaries were considered to be relatively safe from damaging earthquakes. However, in the recent past, even these areas have experienced devastating earthquakes, albeit of lower magnitude than the Himalayan earthquakes. The Koyna earthquake in 1967 led to the revision of the seismic zoning map resulting in the deletion of the non-seismic zone from the map. The areas surrounding Koyna were also re-designated to Seismic Zone IV, indicating high hazard. The occurrence of the Killari earthquake in 1993 resulted in further revision of the seismic zoning map in which the low hazard zone or Seismic Zone I was merged with Seismic Zone II, and some parts of Deccan and Peninsular India were brought under Seismic Zone III consisting of areas designated as moderate hazard zone areas. Recent research suggests that as the understanding of seismic hazard of these regions increases, more areas assigned as low hazard may be re-designated to higher level of seismic hazard, or vice-versa. The North-Eastern part of the country continues to experience moderate to large earthquakes at frequent intervals including the two great earthquakes mentioned above. Since 1950, the region has experienced several moderate earthquakes. On an average, the region experiences an earthquake with magnitude greater than 6.0 every year. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also situated on an inter-plate boundary and frequently experience damaging earthquakes.

FLOODS
Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters. India is one of the highly flood prone countries in the world. Around 40 million hectares of land in India is prone to floods as per National Flood Commission report. For planning any flood management measure latest, reliable, accurate and timely information is required. In this context satellite remote sensing plays an important role.

Preparing for a Flood

Contact the local geologist or town planning department or meteorology department to find out if your home is located in a flash-flood-prone area or landslide-prone area. Learn about your community's emergency plans, warning signals, evacuation routes, and locations of emergency shelters. Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be the "family contact" in case your family is separated during a flood. Make sure everyone in your family knows the name, address, and phone number of this contact person. Post emergency phone numbers at every phone. Inform local authorities about any special needs, i.e., elderly or bedridden people, or anyone with a disability. Identify potential home hazards and know how to secure or protect them before the flood strikes. Be prepared to turn off electrical power when there is standing water, fallen power lines etc. Turn off gas and water supplies before you evacuate. Secure structurally unstable building materials. Buy a fire extinguisher and make sure your family knows where it is and how to use it. Buy and install sump pumps with back-up power. Have a licensed electrician to raise electric components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring) at least 12" above your home's projected flood elevation. For drains, toilets, and other sewer connections, install backflow valves or plugs to prevent floodwaters from entering. Anchor fuel tanks which can contaminate your basement if torn free. An unanchored tank outside can be swept downstream and damage other houses.

Emergency Supplies You Will Need

Several clean containers for water, large enough for a 3-5 day supply of water (about five gallons for each person). A 3-5 day supply of non-perishable food and a non-electric can opener. A first aid kit and manual and prescription medicines and special medical needs. A battery-powered radio, flashlights, and extra batteries. Sleeping bags or extra blankets. Water-purifying supplies, such as chlorine or iodine tablets or unscented, ordinary household chlorine bleach. Baby food and/or prepared formula, diapers, and other baby supplies. Disposable cleaning cloths, such as "baby wipes" for the whole family to use in case bathing facilities are not available. Personal hygiene supplies, such as soap, toothpaste, sanitary napkins, etc. An emergency kit for your car with food, flares, booster cables, maps, tools, a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, sleeping bags, etc. Rubber boots, sturdy shoes, and waterproof gloves. Insect repellent containing DEET, screens, or long-sleeved and long-legged clothing for protection from mosquitoes which may gather in pooled water remaining after the flood.

Preparing to Evacuate

Fill your vehicle's gas tank and make sure the emergency kit for your car is ready. If no vehicle is available, make arrangements with friends or family for transportation. Fill your clean water containers. Review your emergency plans and supplies, checking to see if any items are missing. Tune in the radio or television for weather updates. Listen for disaster sirens and warning signals. Put livestock and family pets in a safe area. Due to food and sanitation requirements, emergency shelters cannot accept animals. Adjust the thermostat on refrigerators and freezers to the coolest possible temperature.

If You Are Ordered to Evacuate

Take only essential items with you. If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity, and water. Disconnect appliances to prevent electrical shock when power is restored. Follow the designated evacuation routes and expect heavy traffic. Do not attempt to drive or walk across creeks or flooded roads.

If You Are Ordered NOT to Evacuate

To get through the storm in the safest possible manner: Monitor the radio or television for weather updates. Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or to a neighbour's home if your home is damaged, or if you are instructed to do so by emergency personnel

Preparing for a Flood

If you are under a flood watch or warning: Gather the emergency supplies you previously stocked in your home and stay tuned to local radio or television station for updates. Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation appears necessary. Have your immunization records handy or be aware of your last tetanus shot, in case you should receive a puncture wound or a wound becomes contaminated during or after the flood. Fill bathtubs, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Sanitize the sinks and tubs first by using bleach. Rinse and fill with clean water. Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills and trash cans inside or tie them down securely

Landslides
India has a sensational record of catastrophes due to landslides, unique and unparalleled. Landslides & Avalanches are among the major hydro-geological hazards that affect large parts of India, especially the Himalayas, the Northeastern hill ranges, the Western Ghats, the Nilgiris, the Eastern Ghats and the Vindhyas, in that order. .

 In the Himalayas alone, one could find landslides of every fame, name and description- big and small, quick and creeping, ancient and new. The northeastern region is badly affected by landslide problems of a bewildering variety. Landslides in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal as also those in Sikkim, Tripura, Meghalaya, Assam, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh pose chronic problems causing recurring losses. There are landslides in the Western Ghats in the south, along the steep slopes overlooking the Konkan coast. Landslides are also very common in the Nilgiris, characterized by a lateratic cap, which is highly landslide prone

Radiation disaster
For improving the quality of life in India with its one billion plus population, Indian Economy has to ensure its growth at about 10% per year on a sustainable basis. For ensuring this DGP growth on a sustainable basis, one of the most crucial inputs in the economy department is energy growth security in general and that all the electricity and particular fall back on its huge thorium reserve for generation of electricity through nuclear power programme. Further, applications of radioisotopes and radiation technology in the areas of medicine, industry, agriculture / food preservation and research are also of immense importance in the society. In view of large programme on nuclear power generation and applications of radioisotopes and radiation technology, its possibility of radiation emergency in India can not be ruled out, particularly because of the possibility of nuclear materials falling in the hands of the terrorists that can be used in the form of Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD), definite likelihood of popularly known as dirty bomb.