Disaster management :
Due to its tropical climate, unstable landforms, high population density, poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate infrastructure, India is classified as one of the most susceptible developing nations to frequent occurrences of diverse natural disasters.
These include droughts, floods, cyclones, earthquakes, landslides, forest fires, hail storms, locust infestations, volcanic eruptions, and other similar events. The consequences of these disasters have a profound and destructive impact on human life, the economy, and the environment within the country.
In addition to natural catastrophes, there exist man-made disasters that arise from deliberate or inadvertent human actions. The aforementioned incidents encompass fire-related calamities, accidents occurring on roads, railways, or waterways, structural failures of buildings, and acts of terrorism including detonation of explosive devices, among others.
Natural disasters
Natural disasters are catastrophic events that occur due to natural processes that can cause significant damage to the environment, infrastructure, and human lives.
Earthquake : An earthquake refers to the abrupt displacement or rupture occurring within the lithosphere, including both the crust and the upper mantle. This phenomenon gives rise to a sequence of abrupt movements, commonly referred to as shocks.
An earthquake exhibits a spectrum of intensities, ranging from a minor seismic disturbance characterized by subtle ground vibrations to a significant geological event that induces extensive destruction across a vast geographical region.
Earthquakes predominantly manifest at the borders of tectonic plates. The tectonic plates have frictional interaction as they undergo motion. Faults are often observed along the boundaries of tectonic plates, where the lithosphere undergoes differential movement.
Occasionally, the lithospheric plates get interlocked with one another. This phenomenon may occur due to the interlocking of the irregular surfaces of the two plates, resulting in the inhibition of plate movement. Consequently, there is an accumulation of pressure exerted on these irregular surfaces.
As the accumulation of pressure persists, a critical threshold is eventually reached at which the rocks, which are interlocked and impede the movement of tectonic plates, yield. Subsequently, the plates experience a sudden and abrupt movement in the same direction as their initial motion. Consequently, an earthquake is generated. The location at which the rocks yield is referred to as the focus. The location on the Earth’s surface just above the focal point is referred to as the epicenter.
The determination of an earthquake’s magnitude is possible through the analysis of data collected by a seismograph. The Richter scale is widely employed as the predominant method for quantifying the magnitude of an earthquake. An earthquake of a magnitude ranging from 2.0 to 4.0 on the Richter scale is considered to have a relatively low level of destructive potential.
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An earthquake with a magnitude greater than 4-8 is classified as a moderate to severe seismic event. An earthquake with a magnitude over 8-9 would be classified as quite severe. The potential impact of an earthquake on human populations is influenced by its geographical location, namely whether it occurs in a densely populated region or a more isolated place.
Drought is widely recognized as a significant weather-related natural disaster, frequently exacerbated by human activities. The onset of drought is inconspicuous, its advancement is gradual, and its consequences can be catastrophic.
Droughts have the potential to begin at any given moment, last for an indeterminate duration, and manifest varying degrees of severity. Due to its extensive spatial and temporal scope, this phenomenon exerts a significant influence on economic conditions, the depletion of cultural artifacts, as well as the occurrence of food scarcity and subsequent malnutrition among vast populations.
Due to irregularities in monsoon precipitation, particularly with regards to geographical and temporal fluctuations, such as delayed commencement, extended interruptions, and premature departure, drought occurrences are a common event across many regions of India.
In India, an estimated 33 percent of the geographical region that has an annual rainfall of less than 750 mm is susceptible to drought occurrences at a frequency of around once every four to five years. Therefore, it can be shown that around 67 percent of the whole cultivated land, which encompasses over 142 million hectares, is susceptible to drought conditions.
India has had three significant droughts throughout the 20th century, specifically in the years 1904-1905, 1965-66, and 1986-87. The drought that occurred in 1987 had a significant and enduring effect on approximately one-third of the nation.
Drought mitigation encompasses three distinct phases, including the readiness phase, preventative phase, and relief phase. The identification of drought-prone regions, together with the acquisition of data pertaining to land use and land cover, waste lands, forest cover, and soils, is an essential requirement for effective drought preparedness.
Space-based multi-spectral measurements exhibit significant potential in furnishing the aforementioned information. Remote sensing data plays a significant role in all three categories of rainfall forecasts, including long-term seasonal predictions, medium-range predictions, and short-term predictions.
Long-term prediction of global and regional atmospheric, land, and ocean parameters, including temperature, pressure, wind, snow, and El-Nino, can be derived from observational data collected by geo-stationary and polar orbiting weather satellites such as the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Cyclones, which are characterized as powerful tropical storms, are recognized by varying names throughout different regions of the world. In the Pacific Ocean, meteorological phenomena characterized by strong winds and intense low-pressure systems are referred to as ‘typhoons’.
Similarly, in the Indian Ocean, these phenomena are referred to as ‘cyclones’, while in the North Atlantic region, they are often known as ‘hurricanes’. Among the different natural disasters, tropical cyclones are widely recognized for their significant impact on human lives and infrastructure worldwide.
According to available data, it is observed that around 80 tropical cyclones emerge year over the planet. India possesses an extensive coastline that is regularly subjected to the impact of tropical cyclones, resulting in significant human casualties and property damage.
Cyclones often manifest throughout the months of April and May, referred to as pre-monsoon cyclonic storms, as well as between October and December, known as post-monsoon cyclonic storms. Although it is not possible to prevent cyclonic storms, the potential loss of human life and damage to properties can be reduced by the implementation of timely warnings and immediate response measures.
For over three decades, meteorologists have employed satellite imagery as a means of monitoring storms. One of the foremost uses in this undertaking is to ascertain the magnitude and severity of a tempest. During the latter part of the 1960s, meteorologists started the practice of watching tropical cyclones with increased frequency.
The utilization of infrared sensors on polar orbiting satellites facilitated the acquisition of diurnal measurements, while geo-stationary satellites ensured uninterrupted coverage during daylight hours. India has developed a very effective cyclone warning system that may be considered on par with the most advanced systems globally.
The methodology primarily entails forecasting the trajectory and strength of the cyclone through the utilization of both traditional and advanced approaches, including satellite and radar-based methods.
Volcanic Eruption: On several occasions, preliminary indicators of volcanic eruptions have been documented in diverse regions characterized by volcanic activity.
Preceding volcanic eruptions, a series of observable phenomena occur, including ground deformations, alterations in the compositions of gases emitted from volcanic vents, fluctuations in the temperatures of fumaroles, hot springs, and crater lakes, as well as occurrences of earth tremors. The utilization of thermal infrared remote sensing has been employed in the evaluation of volcanic hazards.
Nevertheless, the insufficiencies pertaining to equipment and coverage indicate that the evaluation of thermal infrared for volcanic monitoring has not been sufficiently conducted.
Over the last thirty years, there has been widespread utilization of thermal infrared data obtained from airplanes and satellites for the purpose of detecting and monitoring numerous active volcanoes throughout the globe. The utilization of thermal infrared pictures obtained from satellites is a viable alternative for monitoring volcanoes due to its repetitive coverage, regional scope, and cost-effectiveness.
Landslides are geological phenomena characterized by the downward movement of a mass of rock, Several studies have been conducted in India utilizing satellite data and aerial images to establish suitable methodology for terrain categorization and the creation of maps depicting landslide threats in the Garhwal Himalayan region, Nilgiri hills in southern India, and the Sikkim forest area.
Previous research has predominantly utilized aerial pictures because to their superior resolution, which allows for contour mapping at height intervals of less than 2 meters. The utilization of 1 m resolution data obtained from the next IRS mission has the potential to facilitate the creation of contour maps with 2 m intervals. This advancement in space remote sensing technology might significantly enhance the cost-effectiveness of landslide zonation.
Human-induced Catastrophes
Fire-related disasters are a significant area of concern and study within the field of disaster management. These disasters encompass a wide range of incidents Fire-related accidents are often observed. The occurrence of fire leads to significant destruction, including both human lives and material assets.
If a fire occurs in a densely populated structure, the potential for significant loss of life is substantial. The primary causes of fires in buildings are commonly attributed to substandard wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment, as well as gas stove leaks and the negligent disposal of matches or cigarettes. Fires in residential, commercial, and other structures can be mitigated by the maintenance and regular inspection of the primary power supply or fuse, therefore maintaining their optimal functionality.
A nuclear disaster refers to a catastrophic event resulting from the utilization of nuclear weapons, being the most severe form of anthropogenic disaster. The rapid development and innovation in the field of science and technology have not only led to the creation of many conveniences but have also given rise to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs).
These destructive weapons possess the potential to induce the disintegration and downfall of global social, political, and economic structures. The luminosity of a nuclear accident is of such intensity that it causes temporary visual impairment for anyone who directly observe it without the use of protective eyewear.
The detonation is thereafter accompanied by a pronounced thermal surge and a cloud like a mushroom, which materializes above the location of the explosion. In the context of a nuclear accident, radiation is a persistent and insidious threat that can last for an extended period of time following the occurrence. Radioactivity refers to the emission of energy in the form of particles from radioactive substances such as uranium and plutonium.
This energy disperses throughout the surrounding environment, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and disorientation. The detrimental effects of this substance on human health are attributed to its ability to interfere with cellular membranes and induce damage to genetic material, including genes and chromosomes.
Chemical catastrophes refer to catastrophic events that arise as a result of the excessive use and improper handling of chemicals within industrial settings. Industrial accidents are the primary cause of these incidents. Various industries frequently generate hazardous compounds that pose a significant risk to human life and exert detrimental effects on the natural environment.
The negligent management of hazardous chemicals and toxic gasses can result in extensive destruction as they rapidly and effortlessly disperse, encompassing broad regions.
Biological catastrophes: Biological catastrophes arise from the intentional or accidental release of laboratory-developed pathogens into the atmosphere. When these microorganisms are inhaled or gain entry into the body through a laceration or incision, they initiate an infection in an individual.
These microorganisms have the potential to cause the deaths of several individuals who are not involved in any wrongdoing. The introduction of a little quantity of smallpox or plague virus into a town, city, or building has the potential to instigate a catastrophic biological event, resulting in the loss of numerous human lives.
This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various types of catastrophes and the corresponding corrective procedures that may be implemented.
A natural disaster refers to a catastrophic event that occurs as a result of natural processes and causes significant damage to the environment, infrastructure,
An earthquake refers to the shaking or trembling of the Earth’s surface caused by the sudden release Various regions in India are classified into several groups based on their seismic activity. India has had several significant seismic events. The next section presents an overview of the damages produced by the significant ones.
The user’s text does not provide any information to be rewritten in an academic manner. On the morning of October 8th, 2005, a seismic event of significant magnitude occurred at the Indo-Pakistan border.
The seismic event had a magnitude of 7.6 and was experienced with significant intensity in the regions of Pakistan, northern India, and eastern Afghanistan. The earthquake resulted in a significant loss of life, with an estimated death toll exceeding 50,000 individuals.
A significant seismic event occurred in Gujarat on January 26th, 2001, resulting in an earthquake of considerable magnitude. The earthquake resulted in a casualty count exceeding 20,000 individuals.
In the majority of instances, fatalities occur during seismic events due to the occupancy of structurally unsound dwellings by individuals. Raising awareness among individuals on the significance of earthquake preparedness will significantly contribute to mitigating casualties in subsequent seismic events. In the event of an earthquake, it is imperative to adhere to the following precautionary measures:
In the event of an earthquake, individuals situated indoors are advised to seek shelter behind a sturdy table or cot. It is advisable to maintain a safe distance from potentially hazardous heavy objects that have the potential to fall.
When situated indoors within a public setting, it is advisable to seek shelter behind a robust structure. Engaging in rapid movement towards the exit has the potential to incite a mass surge of individuals, so posing a significant risk to personal safety.
When situated in an outdoor environment, it is advisable to relocate oneself from structures, electrical poles, and trees, as they possess the potential to collapse.
When operating a motor vehicle, it is advisable to come to a halt if conditions permit, while remaining inside the confines of the vehicle. It is advisable to avoid bridges, overpasses, and tunnels. It is advisable to refrain from halting in close proximity to trees, lamp poles, power wires, or sign boards, if feasible.
The user’s text does not provide any information to rewrite in an academic manner. Following an earthquake, it is advisable to use caution and be vigilant for the presence of unsecured overhead electrical cables. It is advisable to notify a responsible adult in order to ensure appropriate care and assistance for the individual in question.
The occurrence of a disaster caused by human activities.
The occurrence of a chemical disaster. The Bhopal gas catastrophe, which occurred in December 1984, was the inadvertent release of methyl isocyanate (MIC), a highly toxic gas, from the Union Carbide facility in Bhopal. This incident resulted in a significant loss of life and is widely regarded as an unprecedented chemical disaster in the global industrial landscape.
The release of toxic substances into the atmosphere resulted in the loss of over 2,500 lives and inflicted severe health consequences upon over 300,000 individuals, so constituting a catastrophic incident of pollution. The inherent peril of this particular chemical catastrophe is in its capacity to induce adverse heritable alterations in both human people and other organisms, hence potentially resulting in the deformity of subsequent generations.
In the event of a chemical disaster, it is imperative to adhere to the following precautionary measures:
It is recommended that industries engaged in the utilization and generation of toxic chemicals and hazardous components be situated in geographically distant regions, hence minimizing their proximity to residential areas.
It is recommended that the government conduct periodic surveys to assess the efficacy of measures implemented by firms in order to mitigate the risk of chemical disasters.
The formulation of an emergency plan by the government to address industrial catastrophes and provide recommendations for appropriate antidotes for the treatment of poisoned victims is imperative.
– Pollution levels should be examined and actions should be done to control pollution.
In conclusion, it can be inferred that…
In addition to the loss of human life, natural catastrophes have a significant impact on the ecological and economic aspects of a given region. Space technology has made a substantial impact in the three key stages of disaster management, namely preparedness, prevention, and relief.
India has successfully established an operational framework for disaster warning, specifically targeting cyclones and droughts, through the utilization of a constellation comprising the INSAT and IRS series of satellites. This system enables effective monitoring and mitigation of such disasters. Nevertheless, the forecasting of specific occurrences such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods remains in the experimental stage.
Advancements in space-based earth observation and weather monitoring capabilities in the future have the potential to enhance and improve present models and methodologies utilized for the forecast and control of such catastrophes.
