1.

a) Explain Vulnerability Assessment

Vulnerability assessment is the process of identifying, quantifying, and prioritizing the
vulnerabilities in a system, community, or environment. In disaster management, it involves
analyzing the susceptibility of people, property, resources, and ecosystems to the effects of
hazards such as earthquakes, floods, or cyclones. It helps in planning mitigation and
preparedness strategies.

1.b) Illustrate Hazard Mapping

Hazard mapping involves creating visual representations (maps) that show areas at risk of
various hazards such as floods, landslides, or earthquakes. These maps help in identifying danger
zones and planning land use, evacuation routes, and resource allocation. For example, a flood
hazard map shows river floodplains and areas likely to be submerged during heavy rainfall.

1.c) Briefly Explain the Causes of Climate Change

Climate change is primarily caused by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels,
deforestation, and industrial emissions. These activities release greenhouse gases (GHGs) like
carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) into the atmosphere, which trap
heat and lead to global warming. Natural factors like volcanic eruptions and solar variations also
contribute to a lesser extent.

1.d) Write a Note on Disaster and Development

Disasters and development are closely linked. Poor development practices can increase disaster
risk (e.g., building on floodplains), while disasters can destroy development gains (e.g.,
infrastructure, livelihoods). Sustainable development integrates disaster risk reduction to ensure
resilience and long-term progress.

1.e) Explain Disaster Impact on Ecology

Disasters can significantly disrupt ecosystems. For instance, wildfires destroy forests, floods
contaminate freshwater systems, and oil spills damage marine life. Such events can lead to loss
of biodiversity, habitat destruction, soil degradation, and changes in natural processes.

1.f) Explain Disaster Impact on Health

Disasters affect physical and mental health. Immediate impacts include injuries, deaths, and the
spread of diseases due to poor sanitation or contaminated water. Long-term effects may include
psychological trauma, malnutrition, and disrupted health services. Vulnerable groups like
children, elderly, and disabled are at greater risk.

1.g) Discuss the Role of Resilience in Crisis Management

Resilience refers to the capacity of a community or system to withstand, adapt to, and recover
from disasters. In crisis management, resilience helps minimize damage, ensure quicker
recovery, and reduce future risks. It involves preparedness, awareness, infrastructure strength,
and social systems that can cope with adversity.

1.h) How Early Warning Systems (EWS) Prevent Disasters from Happening?
Early Warning Systems provide timely and accurate information about potential hazards (e.g.,
cyclone alerts, tsunami warnings), enabling authorities and communities to take preventive
actions like evacuation, securing infrastructure, and stockpiling supplies. Though EWS can't stop
hazards, they significantly reduce disaster impact by enhancing preparedness.

1.i) Explain Disaster Recovery Policy

A disaster recovery policy outlines the procedures and responsibilities for restoring services,
infrastructure, and livelihoods after a disaster. It includes short-term relief, medium-term
rehabilitation, and long-term reconstruction. A good policy ensures coordination, resource
allocation, and builds resilience for future events.

Long Questions
1. What is hazard identity and brief on concepts of disaster management.
1. Hazard Identity

Hazard identity refers to the process of recognizing and classifying various hazards that have the
potential to cause harm to humans, property, or the environment. It is a critical step in risk
assessment and disaster preparedness planning.

Types of Hazards:

 Natural hazards – Earthquakes, cyclones, tsunamis, floods, droughts, volcanic

eruptions.
 Human-induced hazards – Industrial accidents, chemical spills, terrorism, deforestation,
climate change.
 Biological hazards – Pandemics, epidemics, plant and animal diseases.

Steps in Hazard Identification:

1. Observation and Data Collection – Gathering historical data about past events.
2. Classification of Hazard – Based on origin (natural/human), frequency, and intensity.
3. Geographic Mapping – Identifying zones at high risk using GIS and remote sensing.
4. Risk Prediction – Estimating the potential impact in terms of lives, property, and
environment.

Identifying hazards allows planners to prioritize risks and develop targeted mitigation and
preparedness strategies.

Concepts of Disaster Management

Disaster management refers to the organized approach to dealing with all aspects of emergencies,
particularly preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. The aim is to minimize the
impact of disasters and ensure sustainable recovery.

Key Concepts:

 Risk – Combination of hazard exposure, vulnerability, and insufficient capacity.

  Preparedness – Activities such as training, simulation drills, public awareness, and early
warning systems that prepare communities for disaster.
 Mitigation – Measures to reduce the effects of disasters (e.g., building codes,
afforestation, land-use planning).
 Response – Immediate actions taken during or after a disaster (e.g., evacuation, rescue,
relief operations).
 Recovery – Rebuilding and rehabilitating affected areas, including housing,
infrastructure, and mental health support.
 Resilience – The ability of a system or community to recover quickly and learn from
disasters.

The disaster management cycle emphasizes a holistic and continuous approach involving
multiple sectors and stakeholders.

2. What is capacity? What are the means of enhancing capacity?

What is Capacity?

Capacity is defined as the combination of all the strengths, attributes, and resources available
within a community, organization, or society that can be used to achieve agreed goals during and
after a disaster.

Types of Capacity:

 Physical Capacity – Infrastructure, equipment, transportation, shelter.

 Social Capacity – Community networks, education, social cohesion.
 Economic Capacity – Financial stability, access to funds, livelihood options.
 Institutional Capacity – Governance, disaster management plans, trained personnel.
 Environmental Capacity – Sustainable natural resource management and ecosystem
services.

A community with high capacity is better equipped to resist, absorb, and recover from disasters
with minimal external assistance.

Means of Enhancing Capacity

Enhancing capacity is essential for effective disaster risk reduction and long-term resilience.
Below are several strategies:

a) Education and Training

 Incorporate disaster education in school curricula.

 Conduct workshops and simulation exercises for communities and first responders.

b) Strengthening Infrastructure

 Build disaster-resilient homes, bridges, hospitals, and schools.

 Implement retrofitting for old structures.
c) Early Warning Systems

 Develop real-time hazard monitoring tools like tsunami buoys, weather radars.
 Ensure information reaches communities in time for action.

d) Community Participation

 Form community-based disaster management committees.

 Engage local volunteers in risk mapping and response planning.

e) Institutional and Legal Framework

 Implement disaster management laws and clear responsibilities for each level of
government.
 Strengthen coordination between agencies.

f) Use of Technology

 Adopt GIS and remote sensing for hazard mapping and planning.
 Use mobile apps for alert systems and community engagement.

g) Financial Mechanisms

 Establish disaster relief funds and insurance schemes.

 Promote microfinance for livelihood resilience.

h) Environmental Protection

 Preserve wetlands, forests, and natural buffers that protect against floods and storms.

In summary, capacity building is an ongoing, multi-dimensional process that includes

developing skills, strengthening institutions, and improving infrastructure to handle present and
future disasters effectively.

3. Define vulnerability. How are vulnerabilities categorized? What are the factors that
increase vulnerability?
Definition of Vulnerability:

Vulnerability refers to the degree to which a community, individual, system, or asset is likely to
be adversely affected by a hazard. It reflects the susceptibility to harm and the inability to
cope with, resist, or recover from disasters.

The United Nations defines vulnerability as:

“The conditions determined by physical, social, economic and environmental factors or

processes which increase the susceptibility of an individual, a community, assets or systems to
the impacts of hazards.”
Categorization of Vulnerabilities:

Vulnerabilities are generally categorized into the following types:

1. Physical Vulnerability

 Related to the location, design, and materials of infrastructure.

 Example: Houses built on steep slopes or near rivers are more prone to landslides or
floods.

2. Social Vulnerability

 Arises from social factors such as education, health, age, gender, caste, or disability.
 Example: Elderly, children, and disabled people may be less able to respond in
emergencies.

3. Economic Vulnerability

 Based on income levels, livelihood options, and access to resources.

 Example: Poor households may lack savings, insurance, or access to emergency aid.

4. Environmental Vulnerability

 Caused by environmental degradation, deforestation, or unsustainable practices.

 Example: Removing mangroves increases coastal communities’ exposure to cyclones.

5. Institutional Vulnerability

 Refers to the lack of effective governance, policies, and disaster management systems.
 Example: Absence of early warning systems or poor emergency planning.

Factors That Increase Vulnerability:

Several interrelated factors can increase the level of vulnerability of a community or system:

1. Poverty – Limits access to food, healthcare, housing, and insurance.

2. Poor Urban Planning – Slums and unregulated settlements in hazard-prone areas.
3. Population Growth – Increases pressure on land, infrastructure, and resources.
4. Lack of Awareness and Education – Leads to ignorance of risks and improper
preparedness.
5. Environmental Degradation – Deforestation, overgrazing, and pollution weaken natural
barriers.
6. Climate Change – Increases frequency and intensity of hazards like floods and droughts.
7. Marginalization – Socially excluded groups (e.g., women, minorities) face higher risks.
8. Dependence on Single Livelihood Source – Affected more when disaster strikes (e.g.,
farming communities during drought).
9. Weak Governance – Poor disaster planning, corruption, and lack of enforcement of
building codes.
10. Conflict and Displacement – Refugees or conflict zones face severe vulnerabilities due
to lack of protection and resources.
 4. How are tsunamis formed and discuss the manmade disasters
1. How Are Tsunamis Formed?

A tsunami is a series of large ocean waves typically caused by a sudden displacement of

water, most often due to undersea earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, or even asteroid
impacts.

Formation Process:

1. Trigger Event
o A massive undersea earthquake (usually above magnitude 7.0) occurs along a
tectonic plate boundary, especially subduction zones.
o Other causes: undersea volcanic eruption, coastal landslide, or meteorite impact.
2. Displacement of Water
o The sea floor abruptly moves, displacing a large column of water above it.
3. Wave Generation
o The displaced water forms waves that radiate outward from the epicenter in all
directions.
4. Deep Ocean Travel
o In deep oceans, tsunami waves travel at speeds up to 800 km/h but have low
amplitude (height), often less than 1 meter, making them hard to detect.
5. Approaching Shoreline
o As the waves reach shallow coastal waters, their speed decreases, but height
increases dramatically, forming large and destructive waves.
6. Inundation and Destruction
o The wave crashes onto the shore with great force, flooding low-lying areas,
destroying buildings, infrastructure, and causing loss of life.

Example:

 The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was caused by a 9.1 magnitude earthquake off the
coast of Sumatra, resulting in over 230,000 deaths across 14 countries.

2. Manmade Disasters

Manmade (or anthropogenic) disasters are events that result from human activities and cause
significant damage to life, property, and the environment. These disasters can be accidental or
intentional.

Types of Manmade Disasters:

1. Industrial Accidents
o Caused by explosions, chemical leaks, or equipment failure.
o Example: Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984) – Methyl isocyanate gas leak killed
thousands.
2. Fires
o Urban, forest, or industrial fires caused by negligence, electrical faults, or arson.
o Example: Oil depot fire, Jaipur (2009).
3. Transportation Accidents
 o Air, rail, road, or maritime accidents due to mechanical failure, human error, or
poor infrastructure.
o Example: Train collisions or aviation crashes.
4. Nuclear and Radiological Accidents
o Caused by malfunctioning reactors or mishandling of radioactive material.
o Example: Chernobyl disaster (1986), Fukushima (2011).
5. Environmental Pollution
o Long-term disasters from industrial waste, deforestation, or oil spills.
o Example: Exxon Valdez oil spill (1989), Yamuna river pollution.
6. Terrorism and Armed Conflicts
o Bombings, shootings, or cyber-attacks that disrupt society and cause casualties.
o Example: 26/11 Mumbai attacks (2008).
7. Dam Failures
o Poor construction or maintenance leading to collapse and flooding.
o Example: Machchu dam failure, Gujarat (1979).
8. Structural Collapses
o Building or bridge collapses due to poor design or construction.
o Example: Rana Plaza factory collapse, Bangladesh (2013).

Consequences of Manmade Disasters:

 Loss of human life

 Economic damage
 Environmental degradation
 Displacement of people
 Psychological trauma

5. What are the causes of transportation accidents due to non collision?

Causes of Transportation Accidents Due to Non-Collision

Non-collision transportation accidents refer to incidents where vehicles are not involved in a
crash with another object or vehicle, but accidents still occur. These are often caused by
internal system failures, environmental factors, or human error. Here are the main causes:

1. Mechanical Failures

 Brake failure: Leads to loss of control, especially on slopes.

 Steering or suspension failure: Causes the vehicle to veer off path.
 Tire blowouts: Sudden tire bursts can destabilize the vehicle.

2. Driver-Related Errors

 Fatigue or drowsiness: Drivers falling asleep can cause vehicles to run off roads.
 Sudden illness: Heart attacks, strokes, or seizures while driving.
 Distraction: Use of mobile phones or eating while driving can cause loss of control.

3. Environmental Factors

 Slippery roads: Due to rain, snow, oil spills, or sand.

  Fog or poor visibility: Drivers may misjudge distances or curves.
 High winds: Especially dangerous for two-wheelers and high-profile vehicles like trucks.

4. Poor Road Conditions

 Potholes and road cracks: Can cause tire damage or vehicle imbalance.
 Unmarked curves or slopes: Lead to misjudgment and loss of control.
 Improper road design: Sudden dips or faulty barriers.

5. Overloading or Imbalance

 Excess weight: Makes braking and steering difficult.

 Uneven load distribution: Causes tipping or fishtailing.

6. Fires and Explosions

 Fuel leaks: May lead to fire without any collision.

 Electrical short circuits: Can ignite a fire inside vehicles.

7. Structural Failures

 Bridge or road collapse: Vehicles fall without any crash.

 Landslides or falling rocks: Cause obstruction or vehicle overturning.

8. Animal Intrusions

 Sudden movement: Swerving to avoid an animal may cause vehicle to overturn.

6. How is an earthquake formed and brief on ecological fragility

How is an Earthquake Formed?

An earthquake is a sudden and violent shaking of the ground caused by the release of energy
from the Earth's crust. This energy is generated due to tectonic stresses that build up over
time.

Process of Earthquake Formation:

1. Tectonic Plate Movement

o The Earth's crust is divided into large pieces called tectonic plates.
o These plates are constantly moving, but their edges can get locked due to
friction.
2. Stress Accumulation
o Over time, stress builds up along fault lines (fractures in the Earth’s crust).
3. Sudden Release of Energy
o When the stress exceeds the strength of rocks, it is suddenly released, causing
the rocks to break and shift.
4. Shockwaves
o This energy is released as seismic waves, which travel through the Earth and
cause shaking on the surface.
 5. Focus and Epicenter
o The focus is the point within the Earth where the quake originates.
o The epicenter is the point directly above the focus on the Earth’s surface.

Types of Plate Movements That Cause Earthquakes:

 Convergent boundaries (plates collide) – causes major quakes.

 Divergent boundaries (plates move apart).
 Transform boundaries (plates slide past each other) – e.g., San Andreas Fault

7. What are the sources of radioactivity?

What Are the Sources of Radioactivity?

Radioactivity is the emission of ionizing radiation or particles from the unstable nuclei of
certain atoms. It can be natural or manmade.

Natural Sources:

1. Cosmic Rays – High-energy particles from outer space.

2. Terrestrial Radiation – From radioactive elements in the Earth like uranium, thorium,
and potassium-40.
3. Radon Gas – A radioactive gas that seeps from rocks and soil, especially in basements.
4. Internal Radiation – Small amounts of radioactive materials naturally present in the
human body (like carbon-14).

Manmade Sources:

1. Nuclear Power Plants – Waste materials and potential leaks (e.g., Fukushima).
2. Medical Uses – X-rays, radiation therapy, diagnostic scans (CT, PET).
3. Nuclear Weapons Testing – Releases radioactive fallout.
4. Industrial Uses – Radiography, sterilization of equipment.
5. Research Laboratories – Handling of radioactive isotopes.
6. Mining and Milling – Extraction of uranium and thorium.

Hazards of Radioactivity:

 DNA damage and mutations

 Cancer risk
 Environmental contamination
 Long-term soil and water pollution

7. Explain in detail the impact of disaster on the attitude of disaster

victims and discuss on climate change and urban disasters
Part 1: Impact of Disaster on the Attitude of Disaster Victims

Disasters not only cause physical and material damage but also have profound psychological,
emotional, and behavioral impacts on individuals and communities. The attitude of disaster
victims often undergoes significant changes, both immediately after the event and in the long
term.

1. Psychological and Emotional Impact:

 Shock and denial: Victims may struggle to accept the loss of family, home, or
livelihood.
 Fear and anxiety: Constant fear of recurrence (e.g., aftershocks, floods).
 Depression and grief: Common in those who suffer severe loss or displacement.
 Anger or blame: Victims may direct blame toward the government, nature, or other
communities.

2. Behavioral Changes:

 Withdrawal or isolation: Especially among children, elderly, or those with trauma.

 Increased dependency: On relief agencies, government support, or external aid.
 Risk aversion: People may avoid rebuilding in the same place or change occupations.

3. Positive Responses and Resilience:

 Community bonding: Disasters often bring people together in mutual support.

 Resilience and recovery: Over time, victims may develop stronger coping mechanisms.
 Preparedness attitude: Some communities take initiatives to be better prepared for
future disasters.

Example:

 After the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake, many survivors initially suffered trauma but later
took part in community rebuilding, showing increased resilience and civic engagement.

Part 2: Climate Change and Urban Disasters

Urban areas are increasingly vulnerable to disasters due to climate change, rapid urbanization,
and poor planning.

1. Climate Change and its Role in Urban Disasters:

Climate change intensifies natural hazards, making them more frequent and severe:

 Rising temperatures → heatwaves and urban heat islands.

 Changing rainfall patterns → intense storms, flash floods, and waterlogging.
 Sea level rise → coastal flooding in low-lying cities.
 Extreme weather events → cyclones, droughts, and unpredictable rainfall.

2. Common Urban Disasters Linked to Climate Change:

Urban Disaster Climate Link
Urban flooding Heavier rains + poor drainage
Heatwaves Global warming + dense construction
Water scarcity Erratic monsoons and overconsumption
Vector-borne Warmer temps encourage mosquito breeding
diseases
Air pollution Warmer air traps pollutants near ground

3. Urbanization Challenges:

 Slum settlements in hazard-prone areas (riversides, hill slopes).

 Poor infrastructure and drainage.
 Inadequate health services for climate-related disease outbreaks.
 Traffic congestion affecting emergency response.

4. Need for Climate-Resilient Urban Planning:

 Green infrastructure (parks, green roofs).

 Improved drainage systems.
 Climate-smart zoning laws.
 Public awareness and early warning systems.

8. What is the impact of disaster mismanagement on the nation’s image?

What is the nature of impact of disaster on children?
Impact of Disaster Mismanagement on the Nation’s Image:

Disaster mismanagement refers to the failure in preparing for, responding to, and recovering
from a disaster effectively. When a nation fails to manage a disaster properly, it faces significant
reputational, political, social, and economic consequences, both domestically and
internationally.

Key Impacts on the Nation’s Image:

1. Loss of Global Credibility:

o Ineffective response undermines trust in the country’s governance and emergency
systems.
o International bodies and potential investors may perceive the country as unstable
or unprepared.
2. Negative Media Coverage:
o Graphic images, slow responses, and public outcry gain global attention.
o Social media amplifies the perception of incompetence or negligence.
3. Reduced Foreign Aid or Support:
o Donors may hesitate to provide aid due to fear of corruption, misuse, or
inefficiency.
4. Loss of Tourism and Investment:
o A poorly managed disaster creates fear and uncertainty, affecting sectors like
tourism, real estate, and foreign direct investment.
5. Political Instability:
o Public dissatisfaction may lead to protests, loss of trust in government, or even
regime changes in extreme cases.
6. Strain on International Relations:
o Neighboring or allied countries may criticize or distance themselves due to cross-
border effects (e.g., pollution, refugee influx).
 o

9. What is the nature of impact of disaster on children?

Nature of Impact of Disaster on Children:

Children are one of the most vulnerable groups during disasters. The impact on them can be
physical, psychological, educational, and social, with some effects lasting a lifetime.

1. Physical Impact:

 Injuries and disabilities due to collapsing structures or debris.

 Malnutrition and diseases due to lack of food, clean water, and healthcare.
 Separation from families, leading to loss of protection and increased vulnerability to
trafficking or exploitation.

2. Psychological Impact:

 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, nightmares, and

emotional distress.
 Loss of a sense of security, leading to behavioral changes like aggression or withdrawal.
 Grief from losing parents, siblings, or friends.

3. Educational Impact:

 Disruption of schooling due to damaged infrastructure or displacement.

 Long-term effects on learning and cognitive development.
 Increased dropout rates, especially in poor or rural areas.

4. Social Impact:

 Children may be forced into child labor or early marriage in post-disaster situations.
 Social isolation due to displacement or loss of community support systems.

Special Note:

Young children may not understand the disaster fully, which can increase confusion, fear, and
trauma. Recovery programs must include child-focused psychological first aid, education
continuity, and family reunification efforts.
 10.What are the measures being undertaken for preventing vehicular
pollution?
Measures Being Undertaken for Preventing Vehicular Pollution:

Vehicular pollution is a major contributor to air pollution, especially in urban areas.

Governments, industries, and citizens are adopting multiple strategies to reduce emissions and
improve air quality.

**1. Implementation of Emission Standards:

 Bharat Stage Emission Standards (BSES) in India, equivalent to Euro standards,

regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engines.
 As of April 2020, Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) norms are enforced, significantly reducing
particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and hydrocarbons.

2. Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EVs):

 Government incentives and subsidies under programs like FAME India (Faster
Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles).
 Development of charging infrastructure and tax exemptions to encourage EV use.
 Focus on hybrid and hydrogen-fueled vehicles as cleaner alternatives.

3. Use of Cleaner Fuels:

 Promotion of CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), LPG, and biofuels in public and
private transport.
 Introduction of ultra-low sulfur diesel and petrol with lower benzene content.

4. Scrappage Policy:

 Vehicle Scrappage Policy encourages phasing out old and polluting vehicles.
 Incentives for owners to scrap vehicles older than 15–20 years.

5. Public Transport Improvements:

 Development of efficient metro systems, electric buses, and bus rapid transit systems
(BRTS) to reduce reliance on personal vehicles.
 Subsidized fares and improved last-mile connectivity.

6. Traffic Management and Smart Solutions:

 Promotion of carpooling, odd-even schemes, and intelligent traffic systems to reduce

congestion and idle emissions.
 Use of adaptive traffic lights, vehicle tracking systems, and parking management
tools.
7. Regular Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance:

 Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification made mandatory.

 Encouragement of regular servicing and use of genuine parts to minimize emissions.

8. Urban Planning and Non-Motorized Transport:

 Creation of dedicated cycle lanes, pedestrian zones, and green corridors.

 Promotion of walking and cycling as sustainable modes of transport.

9. Public Awareness Campaigns:

 Educating citizens on the impact of vehicular pollution and promoting eco-driving habits
like turning off the engine at red lights.

11.What do you understand by the terms Hazard, vulnerability, risk,

capacity and crisis, mitigation, early warning, capacity.

ere’s a clear explanation of the terms and their relationships, often used in disaster management
studies:

a) Definitions of Key Terms:

1. Hazard:
A hazard is a potentially damaging physical event, phenomenon, or human activity that
may cause injury, loss of life, property damage, social and economic disruption, or
environmental degradation.
Example: Earthquakes, floods, industrial accidents, or chemical spills.
2. Vulnerability:
Vulnerability refers to the degree to which people, property, systems, or resources
are likely to be affected or harmed by a hazard due to their physical, social, economic,
or environmental conditions.
Example: Poor housing in a flood-prone area is more vulnerable than well-planned
structures.
3. Risk:
Risk is the likelihood of a hazard causing harm, depending on the exposure and
vulnerability of the community and its ability to cope.
Mathematically:
Risk = Hazard × Vulnerability / Capacity
4. Capacity:
Capacity is the strengths, resources, and abilities of individuals, communities,
institutions, and systems to anticipate, cope with, resist, and recover from the impact of
hazards.
Example: Emergency services, awareness, infrastructure, community preparedness.
5. Crisis:
A crisis is a sudden, unstable, and dangerous situation which demands immediate
attention. It often refers to the moment when a hazard turns into a disaster due to lack of
timely response or control.
 6. Mitigation:
Mitigation involves measures taken to reduce the impact or likelihood of hazards.
These include both structural (e.g., dams, earthquake-resistant buildings) and non-
structural measures (e.g., laws, education).
7. Early Warning:
An early warning system provides advance notice about an impending hazard, allowing
time for response actions to reduce damage or loss.
Example: Tsunami warning systems, cyclone alerts.

12.Describe the relationship between hazard, risk, vulnerability and

capacity
Relationship between Hazard, Risk, Vulnerability, and Capacity:

These elements are interconnected and together determine the overall impact of a disaster:

Term Role in Disaster Context

Hazard The triggering event (e.g., earthquake)
Vulnerabilit The susceptibility of people and property to harm (e.g., living in weak buildings)
y
Capacity The ability to reduce or respond to harm (e.g., trained rescue teams)
Risk The probability of harmful consequences resulting from the interaction of hazard,
vulnerability, and capacity

Example to Illustrate:

 If a cyclone (hazard) hits a densely populated coastal slum (high vulnerability) with
poor preparedness and no warning system (low capacity), the risk is very high.
 But the same cyclone in an area with good drainage, strong buildings, early warning
systems, and trained responders (high capacity) has much lower risk.

13.What are the ‘unsafe conditions’ and ‘dynamic pressures’ operating in your
area?
Unsafe Conditions and Dynamic Pressures in My Area (Example-Based Explanation):

Assuming a coastal urban area in India (like Visakhapatnam or Chennai), here are typical
unsafe conditions and dynamic pressures based on the Pressure and Release (PAR) model:

Unsafe Conditions:

These are specific forms of vulnerability present at the local level.

1. Poor housing construction (e.g., unreinforced structures, slums in low-lying areas).

2. Lack of drainage systems, leading to frequent waterlogging or flooding.
3. Proximity to hazardous industries or port-based chemical storage.
4. Inadequate access to healthcare or emergency services.
5. No early warning system or poor communication channels.
 6. Dependence on daily wages, making recovery after disaster financially harder.

Dynamic Pressures:

These are processes or activities that channel root causes into unsafe conditions.

1. Rapid urbanization without planning—leads to overcrowded settlements.

2. Lack of education and awareness about disaster preparedness.
3. Weak enforcement of building codes and zoning regulations.
4. Environmental degradation—cutting down of mangroves or wetlands.
5. Poor governance or lack of disaster risk management policies.

14.Which tool will you use to analyze the risk of your area?
Hazard, Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment (HVCA)

HVCA is a structured, participatory tool used to understand disaster risk by examining hazards,
vulnerabilities, and capacities at the community level.

🔸 Components of HVCA:
Component Description
Hazard Analysis Identify which hazards affect the area (e.g., flood, cyclone, fire, earthquake).
Vulnerability Analyze who is most at risk (e.g., children, poor families, disabled people)
Assessment and why.
Capacity Assessment Determine existing strengths: hospitals, NGOs, warning systems, trained
personnel.

🔸 How HVCA Works:

1. Community Mapping – Villagers or urban residents map the area, marking hazard-
prone zones.
2. Transect Walks – Physical tour of the area to observe unsafe structures, flood zones, etc.
3. Focus Group Discussions – Discussions with different groups (women, elders, youth).
4. Historical Timeline – Documenting past disasters and how the community coped.
5. Risk Matrix – Ranking hazards based on frequency, severity, and community impact.

🔸 Why Use HVCA?

 Helps prioritize risks and plan actions.

 Encourages community involvement and ownership.
 Builds a foundation for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) planning.
 Useful for NGOs, local governments, and schools.
 15.Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards.
Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused
by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three
decades.

Vulnerability of India to Earthquake-Related Hazards

India's Earthquake Vulnerability:

India is highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its tectonic setting. The Indian plate is
colliding with the Eurasian plate, creating a seismically active region, especially in the
Himalayan belt and adjoining areas.

Seismic Zoning in India:

India is divided into four seismic zones by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS):

 Zone II – Low risk

 Zone III – Moderate risk
 Zone IV – High risk
 Zone V – Very high risk (most seismically active)

Over 58% of India’s land area is vulnerable to moderate or severe seismic activity.

Causes of Earthquakes in India:

1. Tectonic movements (collision between Indian and Eurasian plates)

2. Fault zones and subduction zones
3. Intra-plate earthquakes (e.g., Latur, Maharashtra)
4. Reservoir-induced seismicity (due to dams)

Major Earthquake Disasters in the Last Three Decades:

Earthquake Year Location Magnitude Salient Features
Latur 1993 Maharashtra 6.4 Unexpected as it occurred in a stable region;
Earthquake (Deccan plateau) 10,000+ deaths; poor construction worsened
impact.
Bhuj 2001 Gujarat 7.7 Over 20,000 deaths; widespread destruction;
Earthquake exposed building code violations.
Sikkim 2011 Sikkim and North 6.9 Landslides blocked roads; poor
Earthquake Bengal infrastructure in hilly areas increased risk.
Jammu & 2005 India-Pakistan 7.6 Originated in Pakistan, but affected Indian
Kashmir border side too; high casualties in mountainous
terrain.
Nepal 2015 Nepal (felt in 7.8 Caused damage in Bihar, UP, and West
Earthquake India too) Bengal; led to renewed focus on
preparedness.
Key Vulnerable Regions in India:

 Himalayan belt: J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh

 Indo-Gangetic plains: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi
 Western India: Gujarat, Rajasthan
 Peninsular India: Maharashtra (due to intra-plate faults)

Challenges:

 Rapid urbanization without earthquake-resistant design

 Poor enforcement of building codes
 Lack of awareness and preparedness
 High population density increases risk

16.Explain classification and types of disasters

Classification and Types of Disasters

Disasters are classified based on their origin (natural or human-induced) and impact.

1. Classification of Disasters:

A. Natural Disasters:

These are caused by natural forces.

1. Geological:
o Earthquakes
o Landslides
o Tsunamis
o Volcanic eruptions
2. Hydro-meteorological:
o Cyclones
o Floods
o Droughts
o Heatwaves
o Snowstorms
3. Biological:
o Epidemics (COVID-19, cholera)
o Pest infestations
o Pandemics

B. Human-made (Anthropogenic) Disasters:

These are caused due to human activity or negligence.

1. Technological/Industrial:
o Gas leaks (e.g., Bhopal Gas Tragedy)
o Chemical spills
o Nuclear accidents (e.g., Fukushima, Chernobyl)
 2. Environmental Degradation:
o Deforestation
o Pollution
o Climate change effects
3. Socio-political:
o Terrorism
o Wars
o Refugee crises
o Communal violence

2. Types of Disasters Based on Onset:

 Sudden-Onset: Earthquakes, explosions, floods, cyclones

 Slow-Onset: Drought, desertification, environmental degradation, epidemics

17.Vulnerability is an essential element for defining disaster impacts and its

threat to people. How and in what ways can vulnerability to disasters be
characterized? Discuss different types of vulnerability with reference to
disasters.
What is Vulnerability?

Vulnerability refers to the degree to which individuals, communities, assets, or systems are
likely to experience harm due to exposure to hazards. It is a key factor in determining the
impact and severity of a disaster.

How Vulnerability Can Be Characterized:

1. Physical Aspects – quality and location of infrastructure, terrain, or building materials.

2. Social Factors – population density, age, gender, disability, and marginalization.
3. Economic Conditions – poverty levels, livelihood stability, access to financial resources.
4. Institutional Readiness – presence of disaster management systems, early warning,
healthcare.
5. Environmental Degradation – deforestation, loss of wetlands, poor land use planning.

Types of Vulnerability with Reference to Disasters:

Type Description Examples in Disasters
1. Physical Vulnerability Exposure due to geographic Homes near rivers (floods), hills
location or weak infrastructure. (landslides), or fault lines
(earthquakes).
2. Social Vulnerability Factors like caste, gender, age, Elderly or disabled people unable
disability, and literacy affect to evacuate quickly during floods.
resilience.
3. Economic Vulnerability Low income, informal jobs, or Daily wage earners losing work
no insurance make recovery due to cyclone damage.
harder.
4. Environmental Human-induced changes that Deforestation leading to flash
Vulnerability worsen natural risks. floods; loss of mangroves
 increasing storm surge.
5. Institutional Vulnerability Weak governance, poor Delayed rescue after an
planning, lack of early warning or earthquake due to lack of
medical response. coordination.
6. Attitudinal/Psychological Lack of awareness or risk People ignoring cyclone warnings
Vulnerability perception that leads to inaction. due to previous false alarm

18.The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian

subcontinent. However, India’s preparedness for mitigating their
impact has significant gaps. Discuss various aspects.

Increasing Earthquake Frequency in India and Gaps in Preparedness

Rising Earthquake Activity:

Although the Indian subcontinent is historically seismically active, recent decades have seen:

 More frequent low-to-moderate tremors, especially in Himalayan states and peninsular

India.
 Increased vulnerability due to urbanization, poor construction, and population density.

Gaps in India’s Earthquake Preparedness:

Aspect Issues / Gaps
1. Building Codes and BIS codes for earthquake-resistant construction exist, but implementation
Infrastructure is weak, especially in rural and informal housing sectors.
2. Retrofitting of Lifeline Hospitals, schools, bridges, and older buildings often lack retrofitting or
Structures seismic upgrades.
3. Urban Planning Unregulated construction in seismic zones, particularly in growing cities
like Delhi, Dehradun.
4. Public Awareness General population lacks education on preparedness, drills, and first-aid
in most parts of the country.
5. Early Warning and India lacks an earthquake early warning system; reliance on
Monitoring seismographs gives real-time alerts only after tremors begin.
6. Capacity of Local Disaster response is often centralized, and local governance bodies lack
Authorities training and resources.
7. Emergency Response NDRF and SDRFs are capable but slow to mobilize in remote or
logistically challenging areas.
8. Land Use Planning No effective enforcement of hazard zoning or land-use regulations,
especially in seismic zones.

Recommendations for Strengthening Preparedness:

1. Strict enforcement of building codes, especially in seismic Zones IV and V.

2. Retrofitting old infrastructure, especially schools, hospitals, and government offices.
3. Invest in earthquake early warning systems, especially for Himalayan regions.
4. Regular community awareness and drills, including school and workplace safety
programs.
 5. Strengthening local governance bodies, through training and equipping district disaster
management authorities.
6. Promote earthquake insurance schemes for vulnerable populations.

19.Which demographic aspects do you consider to assess the disaster impact?

Demographic Aspects to Assess Disaster Impact

Demographic aspects are population-related characteristics that help determine how severely a
disaster may affect a community or region. These factors highlight the level of vulnerability,
resilience, and response capacity of people in a given area.

Key Demographic Aspects:

Aspect Why It Matters in Disaster Assessment
Population Density Higher density increases exposure and difficulty in evacuation and relief
efforts.
Age Distribution Children and the elderly are more vulnerable and need special care and
services.
Gender Women, especially pregnant or lactating women, face distinct risks and
challenges.
Disability Status People with disabilities may need support for evacuation, access to
healthcare, etc.
Literacy & Education Impacts how people understand and respond to warnings or disaster
preparedness tips.
Health Profile Populations with chronic illness or weak healthcare access are at greater risk.
Migration & Migrant workers or slum dwellers often live in unsafe, overcrowded
Urbanization environments.
Livelihood Patterns Daily-wage workers, farmers, or fishermen may face long-term economic
disruption.
Housing Type Poorly built homes collapse more easily during floods, earthquakes, etc.
Social Vulnerability Marginalized castes/tribes may have limited access to relief or protection.

These demographic aspects guide disaster planners in identifying who is most at risk, where to
prioritize resources, and how to ensure inclusive and equitable response.

20. Explain global and national disaster trends.

Global and National Disaster Trends
Global Disaster Trends (Last 2–3 Decades):

1. Increase in Frequency and Intensity:

o Climate change has led to more frequent and intense natural disasters
(cyclones, floods, wildfires).
o Disasters like hurricanes and heatwaves are more extreme and widespread.
2. Urban Disasters on the Rise:
o Rapid, unplanned urbanization is making cities more vulnerable to urban
flooding, building collapses, and fires.
3. Climate-Linked Disasters Growing:
o Droughts, desertification, and glacial melting are increasing globally.
 o Small island nations and coastal areas are most affected.
4. Higher Economic Losses:
o Disasters now cause higher financial damage, especially in developed
economies.
o However, developing nations face greater human loss due to weak infrastructure.
5. Pandemics and Health Crises:
o COVID-19 highlighted the global vulnerability to biological hazards.
o Growing concern about zoonotic diseases.

National Disaster Trends (India):

1. Frequent Flooding and Cyclones:

o India witnesses annual floods (Assam, Bihar, Kerala) and cyclones (Odisha,
West Bengal, Andhra).
o Coastal vulnerability has increased due to sea level rise and urban expansion.
2. Heatwaves and Droughts:
o Intensifying in frequency and duration, especially in Rajasthan, Maharashtra,
Telangana, and Bihar.
3. Urban Disasters:
o Building collapses, fires, and road accidents have become frequent in metros
like Mumbai, Delhi.
4. Earthquake Risks Remain High:
o Himalayan states and NE India remain seismically active, with increasing
tremors.
5. Industrial/Technological Disasters:
o Recent examples: Vizag gas leak (2020), fire in hospitals, chemical accidents.
6. Increased Preparedness, but Gaps Remain:
o Institutions like NDMA, SDRFs, NDRF have improved India’s response, but
early warning systems, retrofitting, and public awareness still need
strengthening.

Summary Table:
Trend Global India
Disaster Frequency Increasing Increasing (esp. floods, heatwaves, cyclones)
Climate-Linked Major concern High impact on agriculture & health
Hazards
Urban Vulnerability Growing due to unplanned Severe in metros & coastal towns
cities
Biological Disasters Global pandemics rising COVID-19 exposed system gaps
Response Systems Improving globally via tech Improved NDRF/SDRF, but uneven
implementation

20.Discuss the role of IT in disaster prevention.

Role of Information Technology (IT) in Disaster Prevention

Information Technology (IT) plays a critical role in reducing disaster risks and preventing loss
of life and property by enabling better forecasting, monitoring, communication,
coordination, and response.
Key Roles of IT in Disaster Prevention:
Role Description
1. Early Warning Systems IT supports the collection and analysis of weather, seismic, and
(EWS) hydrological data for forecasting disasters like cyclones, floods, and
earthquakes.
2. GIS & Remote Sensing Helps in hazard mapping, identifying vulnerable zones, and risk assessment
using satellite imagery and geospatial data.
3. Data Management and Centralized disaster databases allow analysis of past events to improve
Analysis future planning and preparedness.
4. Simulation and Disaster scenarios can be modeled using IT tools to test and plan for
Modeling possible emergency situations.
5. Communication IT enables real-time alerts via SMS, mobile apps, emails, and sirens to
Systems reach communities before disaster strikes.
6. Decision Support IT tools assist authorities in resource allocation, evacuation planning, and
Systems (DSS) prioritizing responses.
7. Social Media and These are used to share warnings, crowdsource information, and reach
Mobile Platforms people rapidly during emergencies.
8. Drones and AI Used for monitoring hazard-prone areas, damage assessment, and
delivering relief.

Example in Practice:

 Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) uses IT for real-time weather forecasting

and cyclone tracking.
 ISRO provides satellite data to monitor flood zones and drought-affected areas.
 Mobile-based apps like "Damini" (lightning alerts) and "Aarogya Setu" (health
emergencies) reflect IT’s impact on safety and preparedness.