HU-414

Hazard and Disaster Management

Engr. Muhammad Waqas Muneer
MS Transportation Engineering (NUST, Islamabad)
Department of Civil Engineering and Technology,
Institute of Southern Punjab (ISP), Multan.
 Lecture # 10
Disaster Mitigation
Topics Covered
Structural & Non Structural Mitigation
Disaster Mitigation Strategies
Importance of Information and Communication in
Disaster Mitigation
Emerging Trends in Disaster Mitigation
Strengthening Capacity for Reducing Risk
Role of Team and Coordination
Mitigation for Droughts and Cyclones
"An ounce of
prevention is
worth a pound
of cure"

In 1736, Benjamin Franklin

organized Philadelphia's
Union Fire Company, the first
in the city. This famous
saying was actually fire-
fighting advice.
Disaster Management

Sustainable development:
 Developmental considerations contribute to all
aspects of the disaster management cycle.

 One of the main goals of disaster management, and

one of its strongest links with development, is the
promotion of sustainable livelihoods and their
protection and recovery during disasters and
emergencies.
Disaster Management

Sustainable development:
Disaster Management

Sustainable development:
 Where this goal is achieved, people have a greater
capacity to deal with disasters and their recovery is
more rapid and long lasting.
 In a development oriented disaster management
approach, the objectives are to reduce hazards,
prevent disasters, and prepare for emergencies.
Disaster Management
1. Mitigation - Minimizing the effects of disaster.
Ex: building codes and zoning; vulnerability analyses;
public education.
2. Preparedness - Planning how respond.
to Ex: preparedness plans;
exercises/training; early warning systems. emergency
3. Response - Efforts to minimize the hazards created
by a disaster.
Ex: search and rescue; protection; emergency relief .
4. Recovery - Returning the community to
normal.
Ex: temporary housing; grants; medical care; financial
assistance.
Disaster Mitigation

Mitigation: The lessening or limitation of the

adverse impacts of hazards and related disasters.

Comment: The adverse impacts of hazards often cannot be

prevented fully, but their scale or severity can be substantially
lessened by various strategies and actions.

Mitigation measures encompass engineering techniques and hazard-

resistant construction as well as improved environmental policies and
public awareness.
Disaster Mitigation

 The first phase of disaster management cycle

 It entails measures that seek to remove or decrease
the impacts and risks of hazards through proactive
and predetermined measures
 The main aim of mitigation is to reduce loss of life
and property by attenuating the impact of disasters
Disaster Mitigation

 Mitigation is proactive step, taken to reduce human

loss and financial costs that may arise as an
aftermath of disaster.
 The mitigation efforts are generally organized into
three primary activities, namely risk analysis, risk
reduction and risk insurance.
 The objective of any mitigation effort is to proactively
avert or moderate its impact.
Disaster Mitigation

 The mitigation measures are designed to reduce the

vulnerability of local citizens and property at risk.
 It can be applied to enhance protection from natural
disasters such as floods, tsunamis, earthquakes,
cyclones, storms and other natural disasters.
 The mitigation measures help community avoid
several damages to their assets and help them remain
operational in the face of calamity.
Disaster Mitigation

 Mitigation aids further strength infrastructural

facilities such as roads, railways, hospitals, fire
stations and other significant service facilities so
that they can remain active in an event of disaster.
 Pre-disaster planning helps in achieving mitigation
objectives by creating an awareness of risks and
hazards.
 Structural measures like strengthening infrastructure,
checking dams, contour planting, improved drainage
system, and rain water harvesting etc.
Disaster Mitigation

 Non-structural measures such as public health

campaigns, vaccination programmes, etc are to be
considered in pre-planning.
 All the mitigation measures are aimed at reduction of
the frequency, extent, intensity and effect of
disasters.
 Objective of mitigation is to guarantee that any
human action or natural occurrence does not lead to
disaster.
Disaster Mitigation

 The key to mitigation lies in reduction- aversion-

avoidance of the risk from an event by taking pre-
emptive action.
 Mitigation measures can be – Physical, economical,
social.
 Physical/ infrastructural measures can be categorized
into-
1. Reconstruction of destroyed structure

2. Planning a new infrastructure

3. Retrofitting (strengthening of existing facilities)

Disaster Mitigation

 In all these cases, it should be ensured that

stronger individual structures, that are hazard
resistant, are constructed.
 Mitigation can be carried out in a systematic
manner.
 Strategies can be built to amend, avert,
adjust or circumvent the potential hazard.
Disaster Mitigation

 Amending the hazard involves modifying the nature of

the hazard by eliminating or reducing the incidence of its
occurrence.
 Averting the hazard involves transmission of the impact
of hazard away from a susceptible location to protect people
and property from harm. Example - Dam constructions.
 Adjusting the hazard means changing structural designs
and standards.
 Circumventing the hazard involves keeping people away
from the hazard zones by limiting development in a risk
area.
Disaster Mitigation

 There are four sets of tools that could be used

to mitigate disasters:

1. Hazard management and vulnerability reduction

2. Economic diversification
3. Political intervention and commitment
4. Public awareness
Disaster Mitigation

 Two categories of mitigation activities

1. Structural Mitigation

2. Non-structural Mitigation

Structural measures Non-structural measures

Any physical construction to
reduce or avoid possible impacts of
hazards, or application of
engineering techniques to achieve
hazard resistance and resilience in
structures or systems
Any measure not involving physical
construction that uses knowledge,
practice or agreement to reduce risks
and impacts, in particular through
policies and laws, public awareness
raising, training and education.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
• Construction projects to reduce the impacts of
disasters.
• After carrying out risk analysis, the information
can be used to execute hazard mitigation
activities.
• The available options must be identified, and
cost-and-benefit analysis of each of the option
must be performed.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
Selection of Sites for Industrial and Residential
Buildings:

 Selection of site for industrial and

residential buildings the following should be
considered:
1. Site planning – Site selection & Site analysis.

2. Land-use Pattern – adverse effect on

biodiversity should be analyzed.
3. Other factors – ecosystem, urban & environmental
considerations.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
Minimum distance from sea: Orientation of
Buildings:
 Building codes provide guidelines for regulating the
building construction activities across the country.
 The costal area are found to be vulnerable to
tsunami and cyclones like natural calamities.
 These issues are to be considered while building
constructions near water bodies.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
Minimum distance from sea: Orientation of
Buildings:
 The distance from the edge of a costal bank to a building is
called as setback distance.
 Ordinary high water mark (OHWM) or average high water
mark.
 Setback distance – horizontal distance from OHWM is generally
75ft.
 There are five factors to resist cyclonic wind – roof coverings,
windows & doors, roof sheathing attachment, walls &
foundations.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
Stability of structures: Issues and Concerns
 Technological and socio-economic growth increases in demand
for more and more style and intricacy in building causes increase
into complexities.
 Structural stability, land use regulations, construction areas,
layouts, material used should be taken care.
 Optimum utilization of renewable energy resources.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
Fire Escape in Building Plan
 Standards of fire protection and fire safety of buildings
 Fire safe designs
 Safe and sufficiency of exits
 Obstacle free exit
 Automatic fire detection and alarm system
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation:
Fire Escape in Building Plan
 Thermo-sensitive devices such as automatic sprinkler
system should be installed.
 Fire fighting arrangements.
 Emergency lighting system.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation: Cyclone shelters:

 The increase number of deaths in cyclone-affected
areas is mostly due to the non-availability of safe
shelters in the coastal villages.
 Shelters provides safety to vulnerable peoples during
flood and cyclones.
 These are constructed near evacuating community
and away from source of hazard.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation: Cyclone shelters:

 These specialized buildings are designed to endure
wind speed upto 300km/h (category 5) cyclone and
moderate earthquake.
 Its plinth is above high flood line and standing on a
stilted floor, it can remain unaffected in storm surge
up to the first floor level.
 These shelter structures are differ from normal
buildings to endure more sever wind pressure.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation: Cyclone shelters:

 The roof, walls, windows, doors and ventilation grills
of the cyclone shelters are constructed to resist wind-
born debris.
 Extra security concerns like protecting glass window
by screen, lamination of windows, fitting of doors
with barrel bolts.
 An emergency generator for lighting, a battery
backup for emergency in case of generator failure.
Disaster Mitigation

1. Structural Mitigation: Cyclone shelters:

 Minimum desirable lighting for safe movement of people.
 Appropriate security measures for ventilation.
 Safe Kitchen faculties are required in shelters.
 Water supply to buildings along with safe drinking water.
 The community members are involved in the process with
first-aid kits and trainings.
 Basic shelter management training to shelter members.
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation:

 These mitigation involves measures that seek to

reduce the likelihood of risk through modification in
human behavior.

 These techniques are often considered mechanisms

where man adopts to nature.

 These measure are less costly than the structural

measures.
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation:
 The general non-structural mitigation includes
regulatory measures, community awareness and
education programmes, environmental control and
behavioral modifications.
 Regulatory measures – Legally dictating human
actions; land-use planning & regulations
 These actions are aimed at the common good of
society; compliance to these reduces communal
vulnerability.
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation:
Land-Use Regulations
 These regulations ensures orderly and
development and
services.of
planed cities public
 Aspect of land use to consider
1. Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
2. Urban Land ceiling
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation: Hazard Zoning

 Is an essential non-structural mitigation measure

and got high acceptance amongst communities and
disaster management authorities.
 A world Bank and United Nations report estimates
that around 200 million city dwellers in India will be
exposed to storms and earthquakes by 2050.
 According to geographical statistics, in India
almost 54% of the land is susceptible to earthquakes.
Earthquake
Earthquake zoning
zoning map
map of
of Pakistan
Pakistan
Earthquake zoning map of Pakistan
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation:
Building code and construction:
 These are the integral aspects of non-
structural mitigation.
 The various aspects relating to building codes
are ground coverage, basement, projections,
etc.
 Ground coverage is defined as the total area
covered by a building immediately above the
plinth level.
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation:
Building code and construction:
 There are clearly defined codes for each and every
aspect of building.
 Distance between buildings, road width, internal road
width, the maximum floor area permitted for
residential and commercial use.
 Floor area ratio (FAR) & height of the building is
regulated according to the width of public street or
road.
Disaster Mitigation

2. Non-Structural Mitigation:
Building code and construction:
 Basement is the storey that is partly or wholly below
the average ground level, with a height not
exceeding a projection of 1.2m above the average
ground level.
 National Building Code regulations to be strictly
adhere to while constructing a building.
Disaster Mitigation Strategies

 Disaster Management strategies cannot be

unilaterally mandated and implemented.
 The success of disaster mitigation strategy
likewise requires collaboration among
stakeholders.

 The countries should work together for

disaster management based on needs.
Disaster Mitigation Strategies

 The disaster mitigation policies should steer disaster

prevention as an indispensible aspect of sustainable
development.
 These strategies should be uniformly implemented at
national, regional and local level.
 The strategies objectives should be prioritized
according to the specific needs of the region.
 The development initiative should also include
changes in human and social systems in its
development agenda.
Importance of Information and
Communication in Disaster Management

 Communication can play an important role in

highlighting risks and vulnerabilities.
 The importance of timely warning in
mitigation negative impact can never be
underestimated.
 The goal of communication is to ensure that
the hazard does not become a disaster.
Importance of Information and
Communication in Disaster Management

 Efficient communication can prevent the

occurrence of a disaster or reduce its impact
and play decisive role in the success of
Disaster Management.
 The structural and non structural mitigations
should be communicated to the public in
general so that they are able to adopt
necessary measures.
Emerging Trends in Disaster Mitigation

 Disaster Management has traditionally

consists of activities for efficient response
and recovery, and mitigation measures were
not given due emphasis.
 Disaster mitigation involves activities aimed
at minimizing the destructive effects of
disasters.
 Development and implementation of plans for
reducing threats and vulnerabilities.
Emerging Trends in Disaster Mitigation

 The activities of disasters mitigation are closely

being linked to cater to the needs of community.
 Development projects are being fine-tuned to
address the risk and vulnerability of community.
 Considering disasters as extreme events caused by
natural forces has been challenged lately and it is
well understood as a failure of development
mechanisms.
 This new understanding has led to communities and
agencies being made accountable for their action.
Strengthening Capacity for Reducing Risk

 Disaster risk reduction is a team work that

entails active participation from all the
agencies working for disaster management.

 Capacity development and risk reduction are

interdependent.

 Capacity development – ensures sustainable

development.
Strengthening Capacity for Reducing Risk

 The various types of capacity

development for reducing risks are as
follows:
1. Soliciting active participation from
all stakeholders.
An assessment of
2. Formulation
3. of thecapacity
current capacity.
development
strategies.
4. Implementation of capacity development
strategy.
5. Evaluation of capacity development.
Role of Team and Coordination

 Disaster management is basically a team-based

activity and coordination is the essence of any team
activity.
 Team and coordination among its members play a
vital role in pre and post management of disasters.
 Coordination is the essence of management and it
helps in achieving goals effectively and efficiently.
Role of Team and Coordination

 A team comprises experts from diverse fields who

come together for a common purpose.
 Coordination helps in achievement of objectives by
reducing conflicts and rivalries.
 Coordination helps in directing the efforts of
individuals towards achievement of goals without
duplicating the job.
 Timely action is a must for proper management of
disaster, coordination helps by encouraging team
members to act.
Role of Team and Coordination

 It also facilities the optimum utilization of

limited resources.
 Team work and coordination improve
interpersonal relationship and help in
managing across hierarchical levels.
 Team work leads to higher efficiency since
the work within team are well defined
according to the expertise of individuals and
needs of disaster management.
Drought hazard map showing the vulnerability index
for each district of Pakistan
Types of Drought
Consequences of Drought

Impacts
of
Drought
 Consequences of Drought
1.Agricultural Impacts: Drought reduces crop yields, affecting food production and
livestock. Outcomes: lower agricultural productivity, potential food shortages, and
increased food prices.

2.Water Scarcity: Drought worsens water scarcity, affecting human consumption and
ecosystems. Outcomes: groundwater reserves deplete, water conflicts and ecosystem
degradation.

3.Environmental Consequences: Drought disrupts ecosystems and wildlife habitats.

Wetlands, rivers, and ponds dry up, harming aquatic life. Forests become prone to
wildfires, leading to ecological damage and biodiversity loss.

4.Economic Losses: Drought causes economic losses in agriculture. Outcome: crop

failures, financial distress, reduced revenues, and economic downturns.

5.Human Health Risks: Drought increases the spread of waterborne diseases and poor
air quality. Reduced water availability affects hygiene and sanitation, leading to health
issues like diarrhea. Dust storms and wildfires contribute to respiratory problems.

6.Social and Migration Challenges: Drought triggers social challenges and migration.
Rural populations may migrate to urban areas straining infrastructure and resources,
leading to social tensions.
Mitigation
Mitigation Strategies
Strategies for
for Drought
Drought Control
Control
Some of the key mitigation measures are:
1. Water Conservation and Efficiency
2. Drought Monitoring and Early Warning Systems
3. Drought Planning and Preparedness
4. Water Demand Management
5. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)
6. Drought-Resistant Agriculture
7. Rainwater Harvesting and Water Reuse
8. Infrastructure Development
9. Research and Technology
10. International Cooperation
Mitigation
Mitigation Strategies
Strategies for
for Drought
Drought Control
Control

1) Water Conservation and Efficiency: Promoting water conservation

practices and implementing water-efficient technologies and methods to
reduce overall water consumption.
2) Drought Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Developing effective
monitoring systems to detect drought conditions early and issue timely
warnings. This helps in proactive planning and response.
3) Drought Planning and Preparedness: Developing drought management
plans and preparedness strategies that include assessing vulnerability,
establishing response triggers, and implementing contingency plans.
4) Water Demand Management: Implementing measures to reduce water
demand through pricing mechanisms, water-saving technologies, public
awareness campaigns, and water-use restrictions during drought periods.
5) Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM): Adopting a
holistic approach to water management that considers the
interconnectedness of different sectors and promotes sustainable water
allocation and use practices.
Mitigation
Mitigation Strategies
Strategies for
for Drought
Drought Control
Control

6) Drought-Resistant Agriculture: Promoting the use of drought-

resistant crop varieties, implementing water-efficient agricultural
practices, and adopting soil conservation measures.
7) Rainwater Harvesting and Water Reuse: Collecting and storing
rainwater for various uses and treating and recycling wastewater for non-
potable applications, reducing dependence on freshwater sources.
8) Infrastructure Development: Investing in water storage infrastructure
such as dams, reservoirs, and groundwater recharge facilities to enhance
water availability during droughts.
9) Research and Technology: Continuously improving research and
technology to develop innovative solutions for drought mitigation, such as
drought-resistant crops, advanced irrigation techniques, and improved
forecasting models.
10)International Cooperation: Facilitating international collaboration and
knowledge sharing to address transboundary water issues, learn from
successful practices, and support joint initiatives for drought
management.
 Mitigation
Mitigation Measures
Measures for
for Cyclones
Cyclones
The mitigation measures as proposed by the UN-HABITAT are given below:
1) Hazard Mapping – vulnerable areas can be predicted by hazard mapping.
2) Land use planning – key activities and settlements can be avoided in the most
vulnerable areas.
3) Engineered Structures – to withstand the wind forces
4) Retrofitting Non-Engineered Structures
A few examples of retrofitting the non-engineered structures are:
1) Construction of a steep-slope roof to avoid the risk of being blown away.
2) Anchoring strong posts with solid footings on the ground.
3) Plantations of trees at a safe distance from the house to help break the wind
forces.
5) Cyclone Sheltering – cyclone shelters to help the vulnerable community from
cyclones.
6) Flood Management – As the cyclonic storms lead to heavy rainfall that further
lead to flooding in various areas; importance should be given to the flood
management. The drainage systems should be well-designed to mitigate flooding.
 Mitigation
Mitigation Measures
Measures for
for Cyclones
Cyclones

7) Vegetation Cover Improvement – To increase the water infiltration capacity,

improving vegetation cover is of high importance. Planting trees in rows, coastal
shelterbelt plantations, mangrove shelterbelt plantations, etc. can help break the
wind force and mitigate the severe losses.
8) Mangrove Plantation – The root systems of mangroves help in mitigating
tsunamis, soil erosion etc.
9) Saline Embankment – Along the coast, saline embankments help protect
habitation, agricultural crops, and other important installations.
10)Levees – They act as an obstruction to the wind forces and also provide a shelter
during floods.
11)Artificial Hills – These act as the refuge during flooding.
12)Awareness of the public – The participation of the community increases with the
number of public awareness initiatives. The governments at all levels should initiate
programs bringing awareness about the natural calamities and making provisions for
higher local participation in the mitigation process.
Comments, Questions?
1. Critical Cause Analysis in FORIN: root causes and underlying dynamics of the event
2. Meta-Analysis in FORIN: findings from multiple studies on specific disaster-related topics
3. Longitudinal Analysis in FORIN: Review Data collected over time
Thank you!