Introduction to Disaster Management

Dr. Debasis Sarkar

Associate Professor & former HOD
Department of Civil Engineering
School of Technology
Pandit Deendayal Energy University
Gandhinagar
Email: debasis.sarkar@sot.pdpu.ac.in
 What is a Disaster?
 A disaster is defined as a disruption on a massive scale, either natural or man-made,

occurring in short or long periods. Disasters can lead to human, material, economic or

environmental hardships, which can be beyond the bearable capacity of the affected

society. As per statistics, India as a whole is vulnerable to 30 different types of disasters

that will affect the economic, social, and human development potential to such an extent

that it will have long-term effects on productivity and macro-economic performance.

What is Hazard
 A hazard refers to a source, situation, or substance with the
potential to cause harm, damage, or adverse effects to people,
property, or the environment. Hazards can exist in various
forms and can arise from natural events, such as earthquakes,
floods, or storms, or from human activities, such as chemical
spills, fires, or construction accidents.

 Understanding and identifying hazards is crucial for risk

assessment and implementing appropriate measures to
mitigate or eliminate them. This involves evaluating the
likelihood and severity of potential harm and taking preventive
or protective actions to minimize risks and ensure the safety
and well-being of individuals and the environment.
What is Risk
 Risk refers to the potential for loss, harm, or negative outcomes
that may result from an action, decision, event, or situation. It
is an inherent part of life and can be found in various aspects,
including finance, health, business, and everyday activities.
 In a more formal context, risk is often defined as the probability
or likelihood of an undesirable event occurring, multiplied by
the potential severity of its consequences. In simpler terms,
risk involves assessing the chance of something going wrong
and understanding the potential impact if it does.
 Disasters can be classified into the
following categories:
• Water and Climate Disaster: Flood, hail storms, cloudburst, cyclones, heat
waves, cold waves, droughts, hurricanes.
• Geological Disaster: Landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tornadoes
• Biological Disaster: Viral epidemics, pest attacks, cattle epidemic, and locust
plagues
• Industrial Disaster: Chemical and industrial accidents, mine shaft fires, oil
spills,
• Nuclear Disasters: Nuclear core meltdowns, radiation poisoning
• Man-made disasters: Urban and forest fires, oil spill, the collapse of huge
building structures
 Disasters in India

Cloud brust in Uttarakhand Landslide in Himachal Pradesh

Fani cyclone in Earthquake in Bhuj-
Odisha Gujarat
 Types of Disaster
 A disaster can be of various types and the duration can last
range from a few seconds to a couple of years. Here is a broad
classification of the types of disasters:
 Natural Disaster
 A natural disaster is a physical phenomenon that is caused by either slow or
rapid succession of events that immediately impacts human health and leads
to widespread suffering and death. For instance, an earthquake can take
place for a few seconds whereas a drought takes a lot of time to develop, but
both can adversely affect various life forms in abundance.
 Some of the common examples of natural disasters are as
follows:

• Geophysical (such as tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and

landslides)

• Meteorological (such as storms, wave surges, and cyclones)

• Hydrological (such as floods and avalanches)

• Biological (such as disease epidemics and insect/animal plagues)

• Climatological (such as wildfire, drought, and extreme temperatures)

 Hydrological Disaster
 A natural hydrological disaster refers to a catastrophic event or
phenomenon related to water, usually caused by natural processes.
These disasters are associated with the Earth's water cycle and can
have severe impacts on the environment, infrastructure, and human
populations. Here are some examples of natural hydrological disasters:

1. Floods: Flooding occurs when water overflows onto normally dry land,
usually due to heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or the failure of water
containment systems such as dams or levees. Floods can cause
significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and agricultural lands, and
often result in the displacement of communities.
1. Droughts: A drought is an extended period of abnormally low
precipitation, resulting in a water shortage. Droughts can have
severe economic and social impacts, including crop failure, reduced
water supplies for drinking and irrigation, and ecological damage.
Prolonged droughts can lead to famine, displacement, and conflicts
over limited water resources.

2. Hurricanes and Typhoons: These tropical cyclones are powerful

storm systems characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall.
While primarily associated with high winds, hurricanes and typhoons
also cause storm surges and intense rainfall that can lead to
extensive flooding and landslides.
4.Tsunamis: Tsunamis are large ocean waves triggered by undersea
earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. When they reach coastal areas,
tsunamis can cause devastating flooding, destruction of coastal infrastructure,
and loss of life.

5.Landslides and Mudslides: These occur when a mass of soil, rocks, or debris
moves downhill due to the force of gravity. Heavy rainfall, earthquakes, or
volcanic activity can trigger landslides, causing property damage, disrupting
transportation routes, and posing risks to human lives.

6.Avalanches: Avalanches are rapid, downhill movements of snow, ice, and

debris. They can be triggered by heavy snowfall, temperature changes, or
human activities. Avalanches pose a significant threat to mountainous regions,
impacting transportation, infrastructure, and recreational activities.
7.Ice storms: Ice storms occur when freezing rain coats surfaces
with a layer of ice, causing widespread damage to trees, power
lines, and infrastructure. They can disrupt transportation, lead to
power outages, and create hazardous conditions for pedestrians
and vehicles.

 These natural hydrological disasters can have severe

consequences for communities, ecosystems, and the overall
functioning of affected regions. Adequate preparedness, early
warning systems, and effective response measures are crucial in
mitigating the impacts of these disasters and ensuring the
safety and well-being of affected populations.
 Geological disaster
 A natural geological disaster, also known as a geologic hazard, refers to an event or
process that occurs in the Earth's crust or related systems and poses a threat to
human life, property, or the environment. These disasters are primarily caused by
natural processes and phenomena, and they can have significant impacts on local
and sometimes even global scales. Some common examples of natural geological
disasters include:
1. Earthquakes: Sudden shaking or trembling of the ground caused by the movement of
tectonic plates. Earthquakes can cause widespread damage, collapse buildings,
trigger landslides, and generate tsunamis.
2. Volcanic eruptions: The eruption of molten rock, ash, and gases from a volcano.
Volcanic eruptions can lead to the destruction of nearby settlements, release toxic
gases, produce pyroclastic flows, and cause volcanic ashfall over large areas.
1. Landslides: The rapid movement of soil, rocks, and debris down a slope.
Landslides can be triggered by earthquakes, heavy rainfall, or volcanic
activity. They can bury homes, infrastructure, and cause loss of life.

2. Tsunamis: Large ocean waves generated by underwater disturbances

such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. When they reach
the coast, tsunamis can cause devastating flooding and destruction.
5.Sinkholes: Sudden collapses of the Earth's surface, often
occurring in areas with soluble rocks such as limestone or gypsum.
Sinkholes can appear gradually or develop suddenly, swallowing
buildings, roads, or entire regions.
6.Avalanches: Rapid mass movements of snow, ice, and debris
down a mountainside. Avalanches can be triggered by factors such
as heavy snowfall, earthquakes, or human activities. They pose a
threat to mountainous regions and can bury structures and
individuals.
7.Subsidence: The gradual sinking or settling of the Earth's surface
due to various processes, such as the extraction of groundwater or
the collapse of underground mines. Subsidence can lead to
damage to infrastructure and cause structural instability.
 It's important to note that while these events are considered natural

disasters, their impact can be mitigated through preparedness, early

warning systems, and appropriate land-use planning. Additionally,

scientific research and monitoring efforts are essential for understanding

and managing the risks associated with these geological hazards.

Wind
 A natural wind disaster refers to a catastrophic event caused by extreme wind conditions, such
as hurricanes, tornadoes, or severe storms. These events can result in significant damage to
property, infrastructure, and can pose a serious threat to human life.
 Here are some examples of natural wind disasters:
1. Hurricanes: Hurricanes are large, powerful tropical cyclones characterized by strong winds and
heavy rainfall. They can cause widespread destruction along coastlines and in inland areas. The
high winds associated with hurricanes can uproot trees, damage buildings, and create storm
surges, leading to flooding in coastal regions.
2. Tornadoes: Tornadoes are violent, rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to
the ground. They are characterized by strong winds that can reach over 300 miles per hour (480
kilometers per hour). Tornadoes can cause severe damage to structures in their path, resulting
in the destruction of homes, buildings, and infrastructure.
3. Derechos: are widespread, long-lived windstorms associated with a line of severe thunder.
Derechos: storms. They can produce damaging straight-line winds over a large area, causing
significant damage to trees, power lines, and structures. Derechos often occur during the
summer months in areas prone to severe thunderstorms.

4. Downbursts and Microbursts: Downbursts and microbursts are localized columns of

sinking air that result in strong, damaging winds at the surface. They can occur during severe
thunderstorms and are particularly dangerous for aviation, as they can cause sudden changes
in wind direction and intensity, posing a risk to aircraft during takeoff and landing.

5. Nor'easters: Nor'easters are powerful coastal storms that form along the East Coast of
North America. They are characterized by strong winds that blow from the northeast, hence the
name "nor'easter." These storms can bring heavy snowfall, coastal flooding, and strong winds,
leading to significant damage to coastal areas and inland regions.

It's important to note that these natural wind disasters can have devastating impacts on
communities and individuals. Preparedness, early warning systems, and evacuation plans are
essential for minimizing the potential damage and ensuring the safety of those at risk.
 Heat and Cold Wave

Natural heat and cold wave disasters are extreme weather events characterized
by prolonged periods of unusually high or low temperatures, respectively. These events
can have significant impacts on human health, agriculture, infrastructure, and
ecosystems. Let's explore each type of disaster in more detail:

Heat Wave Disaster: A heat wave is an extended period of excessively hot

weather, often accompanied by high humidity. Heat waves can be dangerous,
particularly in urban areas, where the "urban heat island" effect can cause
temperatures to rise even higher. Some of the effects and risks associated with heat
wave disasters include:

• Heat-related illnesses: Heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration are common
health risks during heat waves, especially for vulnerable populations such as the
elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
• Increased mortality: Heat waves can lead to a rise in mortality rates, particularly among the
elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

• Agricultural impacts: High temperatures and drought conditions during heat waves can
damage crops, reduce yields, and impact livestock.

• Infrastructure strain: Increased demand for electricity to power air conditioning systems can
overload power grids, leading to blackouts. Additionally, heat can cause damage to roads,
bridges, and other infrastructure.

• Wildfires: Heat waves can exacerbate the risk of wildfires, as dry and hot conditions increase
the likelihood of ignition and spread.
2. Cold Wave Disaster: A cold wave is an extended period of extremely cold
temperatures, often accompanied by strong winds and snowfall. Cold waves can
bring about various hazards and challenges, including:
• Hypothermia and frostbite: Exposure to extreme cold can lead to life-threatening
conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite, particularly if adequate protection and
shelter are not available.
• Increased energy demand: During cold waves, there is a surge in demand for
heating, which can strain energy supplies and potentially lead to power outages.
• Transportation disruptions: Heavy snowfall and icy conditions can disrupt
transportation systems, including roads, railways, and airports, making travel
hazardous and leading to delays and cancellations.
• Damage to infrastructure: Cold temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze and
burst, damaging buildings and infrastructure. Additionally, the weight of snow and ice
can lead to the collapse of roofs and other structures.

• Impact on agriculture: Cold waves can damage or kill crops, particularly those
sensitive to freezing temperatures. Livestock can also be affected if proper shelter
and care are not provided.

 Both heat waves and cold waves are influenced by natural climate patterns, but
climate change can exacerbate their intensity, frequency, and duration. It is essential
to have preparedness measures, early warning systems, and strategies in place to

mitigate the impacts of these natural disasters and protect vulnerable

populations.
Climate Change
 Climate change is often referred to as a global disaster due to its far-reaching and long-term
effects on the planet and human societies. Here are some key reasons why climate change is
considered a disaster:
1. Rising temperatures: Climate change is primarily caused by the increase in greenhouse gas
emissions, leading to a rise in global temperatures. Higher temperatures result in heatwaves,
droughts, and increased evaporation rates, leading to water scarcity and agricultural
challenges.
2. Extreme weather events: Climate change contributes to the intensification and frequency of
extreme weather events such as hurricanes, cyclones, floods, and wildfires. These events can
cause significant damage to infrastructure, loss of life, displacement of communities, and
economic instability.
3. Sea-level rise: As global temperatures increase, glaciers and polar ice caps melt, leading to
rising sea levels. Rising sea levels pose a significant threat to coastal regions, resulting in
coastal erosion, increased flooding, and the potential displacement of millions of people living in
low-lying areas.
4. Biodiversity loss: Climate change has a detrimental impact on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Rising temperatures and altered weather patterns disrupt ecosystems, leading to the loss of
habitats and the extinction of plant and animal species. This loss of biodiversity can have
cascading effects on the food chain and ecosystem stability.
5.Health impacts: Climate change affects human health through various mechanisms.
Heatwaves can cause heat-related illnesses and deaths, while changing weather patterns
can increase the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
Additionally, air pollution resulting from fossil fuel combustion contributes to respiratory
illnesses.
6.Economic consequences: Climate change poses significant economic risks.
Disruptions to agriculture, infrastructure damage from extreme weather events,
increased healthcare costs, and the need for adaptation and mitigation measures all
have substantial economic implications.
 Addressing climate change requires global cooperation and urgent action. Mitigation
efforts, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable
energy sources, are crucial to limit the extent of climate change. Adaptation
measures, such as improving infrastructure resilience and implementing sustainable
agricultural practices, are also important in minimizing the impact of climate change-
related disasters.
 Global Warming
 Global warming is often referred to as a significant environmental and humanitarian
disaster. It is the long-term increase in Earth's average temperature due to human
activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. This phenomenon has far-
reaching consequences for our planet and its inhabitants.
 Here are some reasons why global warming is considered a disaster:
1. Climate Change: Global warming leads to climate change, resulting in extreme weather
events such as hurricanes, heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires. These events can
cause widespread destruction, loss of life, displacement of people, and damage to
infrastructure, agriculture, and ecosystems.
2. Rising Sea Levels: As the Earth's temperature increases, glaciers and ice caps melt, causing
a rise in sea levels. This puts coastal areas at risk of inundation and increases the
frequency and severity of coastal flooding. Low-lying islands and densely populated coastal
regions are particularly vulnerable to this threat.
1. Ecosystem Disruption: Global warming disrupts ecosystems and
threatens biodiversity. Many species struggle to adapt to the rapid
changes in temperature and precipitation patterns, leading to habitat
loss and species extinction. This loss of biodiversity can have
cascading effects on ecosystems and disrupt the balance of entire
food chains.

2. Food and Water Security: Changes in temperature and rainfall

patterns impact agricultural productivity. Shifts in growing seasons,
increased pests and diseases, and water scarcity can lead to reduced
crop yields and livestock production. This jeopardizes food security,
particularly in developing countries where agriculture is a significant
5. Health Risks: Global warming contributes to various health risks. Heatwaves can cause
heat-related illnesses and deaths, especially among vulnerable populations such as the
elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Changes in precipitation patterns
can also lead to the spread of waterborne diseases and vector-borne diseases like
malaria and dengue fever.

6. Economic Consequences: The economic costs of global warming are substantial.

Damage to infrastructure, increased disaster response and recovery expenses, and the
decline of industries dependent on natural resources (e.g., fisheries and agriculture) can
have severe economic impacts. Additionally, the need to mitigate and adapt to climate
change requires significant investments and can strain national budgets.
 Addressing global warming and its associated disasters requires

concerted efforts at local, national, and international levels.

Mitigation measures, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions,

transitioning to renewable energy sources, and promoting

sustainable practices, are crucial to limit the severity of global

warming. Additionally, adaptation strategies, including improving

infrastructure resilience, implementing early warning systems, and

enhancing healthcare systems, are essential to minimize the impact

 Sea Level Rise
 Sea level rise is indeed a significant environmental concern and can have disastrous
consequences for both human and natural systems. Here are some of the impacts and risks
associated with sea level rise:

1. Coastal Flooding: As sea levels rise, low-lying coastal areas are at an increased risk of flooding
during high tides, storm surges, and extreme weather events. This can lead to the loss of
homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods, displacing populations and causing economic
disruptions.

2. Erosion and Coastal Land Loss: Higher sea levels contribute to increased erosion of beaches,
shorelines, and coastal habitats. This erosion can lead to the loss of land, including valuable
agricultural areas and natural habitats. It also poses a threat to coastal infrastructure such as
roads, buildings, and ports.

3. Saltwater Intrusion: Rising sea levels can cause saltwater to infiltrate freshwater sources, such
as groundwater and estuaries. This intrusion can contaminate drinking water supplies and
harm agricultural lands, making it difficult to sustain local communities and ecosystems that
rely on freshwater resources.
4. Impact on Ecosystems: Coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and
coral reefs are highly vulnerable to sea level rise. These ecosystems provide vital
habitats, protect coastlines from erosion, and support diverse marine life. As sea levels
rise, these ecosystems may drown or be pushed inland, leading to a loss of biodiversity
and ecosystem services.

5. Disruption of Coastal Communities: Sea level rise can force the relocation of coastal
communities due to the increased risk of flooding and erosion. This displacement can
result in social and economic upheaval, loss of cultural heritage, and increased
competition for resources in new areas.
6. Increased Storm Damage: Rising sea levels can amplify the destructive
power of storms and hurricanes. Higher sea levels provide a higher
starting point for storm surges, making coastal areas more susceptible to
flooding and damage from extreme weather events.

 Addressing sea level rise requires a combination of mitigation and

adaptation strategies. Mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas
emissions to slow down the rate of global warming and subsequent
sea level rise. Adaptation measures include building sea defenses,
implementing coastal zoning and land-use policies, and creating
resilient infrastructure to protect coastal communities and
ecosystems.
 Ozone Depletion
 Ozone depletion refers to the gradual thinning and destruction of the ozone layer in
Earth's stratosphere. While it is not typically classified as a disaster in the same sense
as natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes, ozone depletion is a significant
environmental concern with far-reaching consequences.

 The ozone layer plays a vital role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing most of the
sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation can cause various harmful effects,
including skin cancer, cataracts, reduced crop yields, and damage to marine
ecosystems. When the ozone layer is depleted, more UV radiation reaches the Earth's
surface, posing serious threats to human health, biodiversity, and the environment.
 The primary cause of ozone depletion is the release of certain man-made
chemicals, known as ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and halons.
These chemicals were widely used in aerosol propellants, refrigerants, foam-
blowing agents, and fire suppression systems. When released into the
atmosphere, they can slowly rise and reach the stratosphere, where they are
broken down by UV radiation, releasing chlorine and bromine atoms that
destroy ozone molecules.

 The most significant consequence of ozone depletion is an increase in the

prevalence of skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to higher levels of UV radiation
can lead to the development of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Furthermore, UV radiation can also suppress the immune system, making
individuals more susceptible to infectious diseases.
 Ozone depletion also has adverse effects on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
UV radiation can harm phytoplankton, which forms the basis of the oceanic food
chain. Reduced levels of phytoplankton can disrupt the entire marine
ecosystem, impacting fisheries and other marine resources. Similarly, increased
UV radiation can affect the growth and development of terrestrial plants,
leading to reduced crop yields, altered ecosystems, and decreased biodiversity.

 Recognizing the severity of ozone depletion, international efforts have been

made to address the issue. The most notable global initiative is the Montreal
Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, an international
agreement ratified by almost every country. The protocol has successfully
phased out the production and use of most ozone-depleting substances, leading
to a gradual recovery of the ozone layer. Nonetheless, full recovery is expected
to take several decades.
 Man-Made Disaster
 Man-made disasters are events that are the direct results of human activities
or mistakes. Sometimes, it is the result of an immediate action made by
humans while sometimes it is a build-up of the culmination of human
misdoings.
 Some of the most common man-made disasters are as follows:
• Groundwater contamination
• Mining accidents
• Structure failures
• Hazardous material spills
• Gas chamber leaks
• Oil spills
• Vehicle accident
• Environmental degradation
• Pollution
• Terrorism
 CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological,
and Nuclear) disaster
 A CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) man-made disaster refers to a
catastrophic event caused by the intentional release or accidental release of hazardous
substances that fall into one or more of these categories. Let's look at each component
individually:

1. Chemical: Chemical disasters involve the release of toxic substances that can cause harm to
humans, animals, and the environment. Examples include industrial accidents, such as
chemical spills, explosions at chemical plants, or the deliberate release of chemical agents like
nerve gases.

2. Biological: Biological disasters involve the deliberate or accidental release of biological agents,
such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins that can cause widespread illness, epidemics, or pandemics.
Examples include the intentional release of anthrax or the accidental release of a dangerous
pathogen from a laboratory.
1. Radiological: Radiological disasters involve the release of ionizing radiation, such as from a nuclear
power plant accident, a dirty bomb (a conventional explosive combined with radioactive materials),
or the unauthorized use of radioactive sources. These events can result in radiation exposure,
contamination of the environment, and potential long-term health effects.

2. Nuclear: Nuclear disasters typically involve the release of radioactive materials due to a nuclear
reactor accident, a nuclear weapon detonation, or the mishandling of nuclear materials. These
events can cause devastating immediate effects, such as explosions and intense radiation, as well
as long-term effects on the environment and public health.

 CBRN man-made disasters pose significant threats to human life, public health, infrastructure, and
the environment. They require prompt and coordinated responses from emergency management
agencies, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and other relevant authorities to mitigate the
immediate impact, provide medical care, and minimize the long-term consequences. Preparedness
measures, such as emergency response plans, public education, and training, are crucial in
reducing the risks associated with CBRN events.
Fire
 A fire is a disaster that can be caused by various factors, including human activities. Man-made
fires can result from accidents, negligence, arson, or industrial incidents. Here are some examples
of man-made disasters related to fires:

1. Arson: Deliberately starting a fire with the intent to cause damage or harm is considered arson.
Arson attacks can target residential buildings, commercial establishments, vehicles, or public
infrastructure. The motivation behind arson can vary from vandalism to insurance fraud or even
terrorism.

2. Industrial accidents: Fires can occur in industrial settings due to mishaps or equipment failures.
Chemical plants, factories, oil refineries, or storage facilities are examples of locations where a fire
can quickly escalate into a major disaster. These incidents may lead to severe environmental
damage, loss of life, and long-term effects on the surrounding area.

3. Electrical fires: Electrical malfunctions, such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper
electrical installations, can ignite fires in homes, offices, or public buildings. This emphasizes the
importance of following proper electrical safety procedures and codes to prevent such disasters.
3. Wildfires: Although wildfires can start naturally, human activities often contribute to their ignition
and spread. Careless behavior, such as discarded cigarettes, unattended campfires, or burning
debris, can trigger wildfires that rapidly escalate, posing a significant threat to ecosystems, wildlife,
and human settlements.

4. Negligence: Human negligence, such as improper handling of flammable materials or inadequate

fire safety measures, can lead to disastrous fires. This includes situations where safety protocols are
not followed, fire extinguishers are absent or non-functional, or emergency exits are blocked,
jeopardizing the safety of individuals in buildings or public spaces.

5. Accidents in residential areas: Fires can break out in residential areas due to accidents in kitchens,
improper use of heating equipment, or negligence involving flammable materials. These incidents
can cause property damage, injuries, or loss of life.

6. Preventing and mitigating the impact of man-made fires involve raising awareness about fire
safety, enforcing building codes and regulations, maintaining proper emergency response protocols,
and educating individuals about responsible behavior.
Accidents
 An accident is an unplanned and unexpected event that results in damage, injury, or loss. On
the other hand, a man-made disaster refers to a catastrophic event that is primarily caused by
human activities, rather than natural forces. Man-made disasters can have far-reaching and
devastating consequences.

 Examples of man-made disasters include:

1. Industrial Accidents: These accidents occur in industrial settings such as factories, chemical
plants, or oil refineries. Examples include explosions, leaks of hazardous substances, or fires
that can result in significant damage to the environment, infrastructure, and human health.

2. Nuclear Accidents: Nuclear disasters, such as the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 and the
Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011, are caused by failures or accidents at nuclear
power plants. These incidents can release harmful radiation into the environment, leading to
long-term health and environmental consequences.
3. Oil Spills: Accidental releases of oil into the environment, often from oil tankers
or offshore drilling rigs, can have severe ecological and economic impacts. Oil
spills can harm marine life, damage ecosystems, and affect coastal communities
that rely on tourism and fishing.
4. Transportation Accidents: Accidents involving transportation systems like
trains, planes, ships, or automobiles can cause significant damage and loss of
life. Examples include train derailments, plane crashes, ship collisions, or major
highway accidents.
5. Structural Failures: Building collapses or structural failures due to poor
construction practices, lack of maintenance, or natural disasters exacerbated by
human factors can result in large-scale disasters, causing casualties and property
damage.
6. Human-induced Climate Change: While climate change is a complex issue
influenced by natural factors, human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels
and deforestation, contribute significantly to the acceleration of climate change.
The consequences of climate change, including extreme weather events, rising
sea levels, and ecological disruptions, can be considered man-made disasters.
It's important to note that preventing and mitigating man-made disasters
requires careful planning, adherence to safety protocols, and responsible
decision-making to minimize the risks associated with human activities.
Pollution
 Pollution is indeed a man-made disaster. It refers to the introduction of harmful substances or
pollutants into the environment, leading to adverse effects on the ecosystem, human health,
and the planet as a whole. Various human activities such as industrialization, transportation,
agriculture, and energy production contribute to different forms of pollution, including air
pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution.

1. Air Pollution: Emissions from factories, power plants, vehicles, and burning of fossil fuels
release pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx),
and particulate matter into the atmosphere. These pollutants contribute to smog, acid rain,
and climate change, while also posing health risks to humans and animals.

2. Water Pollution: Disposal of industrial waste, sewage, and chemicals into water bodies leads to
water pollution. This contamination affects marine life, disrupts ecosystems, and poses a
threat to human health when polluted water is consumed or used for irrigation.
3. Soil Pollution: The use of pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers in
agriculture, as well as improper waste disposal, can contaminate soil. Soil
pollution affects plant growth, reduces soil fertility, and can lead to the
contamination of food crops and groundwater.

4. Noise Pollution: Urbanization, transportation, and industrial activities

generate excessive noise levels, which can have detrimental effects on
human health, including stress, hearing loss, and sleep disturbances.

5. These forms of pollution are largely a result of human actions and have
severe consequences for the environment and all living beings. Addressing
pollution requires collective efforts, such as adopting sustainable practices,
promoting renewable energy sources, implementing stricter environmental
regulations, and raising awareness about the importance of conservation
and pollution prevention.
 Deforestation
 Deforestation is indeed considered a man-made disaster. It refers to the clearing,
removal, or destruction of forests or woodland areas, primarily caused by human
activities. The consequences of deforestation can be severe and far-reaching,
impacting both the environment and human societies.

 Here are some reasons why deforestation is considered a man-made disaster:

1. Agricultural Expansion: One of the primary drivers of deforestation is the conversion of

forests into agricultural land. Large-scale commercial farming, including activities like
palm oil plantations, soybean production, and cattle ranching, often requires vast
areas of land, leading to the clearing of forests.

2. Logging: The demand for timber and wood products fuels widespread logging
practices. Clear-cutting of trees for timber extraction, as well as illegal logging, can
devastate forests, leading to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.
 Deforestation
3. Infrastructure Development: The construction of roads, dams, mining operations,
and urban expansion also contributes to deforestation. These activities require the
clearing of land, resulting in the loss of forest cover.

4. Fuelwood Collection: In many developing countries, forests are often relied upon
as a source of fuelwood for cooking and heating. Unsustainable harvesting practices,
coupled with population growth, can lead to the overexploitation and depletion of
forest resources.

5. Forest Fires: Human activities, such as slash-and-burn agriculture and the

careless use of fire, can trigger forest fires that spread rapidly and destroy vast areas
of forest. These fires are often difficult to control and can have long-lasting ecological
consequences.
 The consequences of deforestation are significant and
wide-ranging:
1. Loss of Biodiversity: Forests are home to a vast array of plant and animal species.
Deforestation leads to habitat loss, fragmentation, and species extinction. Many endangered
species rely on forests for their survival, and their loss can disrupt entire ecosystems.

2. Climate Change: Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the
atmosphere. When forests are cleared, this carbon is released back into the atmosphere,
contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and exacerbating climate change.

3. Soil Erosion and Degradation: Tree roots play a crucial role in holding soil together, preventing
erosion. Deforestation leaves the soil exposed to wind and water, leading to erosion, reduced
fertility, and the loss of agricultural productivity.
 The consequences of deforestation are significant and
wide-ranging:
4. Disruption of Water Cycles: Forests are essential for maintaining water cycles by
regulating rainfall patterns and preventing soil erosion. Deforestation can disrupt these
cycles, leading to changes in precipitation patterns, reduced water quality, and increased
risk of floods and droughts.

5. Societal Impact: Indigenous communities and local populations often depend on forests
for their livelihoods, including food, medicine, and cultural practices. Deforestation can
displace these communities, leading to social and economic challenges.

6. Recognizing deforestation as a man-made disaster highlights the urgent need for

sustainable land management practices, reforestation efforts, and the conservation of
existing forests. Governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide are working to address
this issue through initiatives such as sustainable forestry, protected area creation, and the
promotion of alternative livelihoods for forest- dependent communities.
 Pandemic Disasters
 The word pandemic has been derived from the Greek words ‘pan’ meaning ‘all’ and ‘demos
meaning ‘people’. So, pandemic means a situation that affects everyone. It is the spread of an
infectious disease that spreads across a large region that not only affects health but also
disrupts services that lead to economical degradation.
 It may be a consequence of a natural or man-made disaster or both. Some of the
common examples of pandemic disasters are as follows:
• Cholera
• Spanish Flu
• Avian Flu/ Bird Flu
• Zika
• Ebola
• Malaria
• Dengue
• Yellow Fever
• Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
 Complex Emergency Disasters
 Complex emergency disasters refer to those events that result from a combination of
both natural and man-made causes that involve looting, attacks, breakdown of
authority, conflicts, and war. These disasters are often characterized by widespread
damage to both economics and science, and extensive violence, among others.
 It requires humanitarian assistance at a large scale across numerous agencies in order
to combat these disasters. There is also an increased risk of security for humanitarian
relief workers in these cases. Some of the prime examples of complex emergency
disasters are as follows:
• Armed conflicts
• Epidemics
• Food insecurity
• Displaced populations
 Phases of Disaster
 Disaster situations are dynamic, always changing and demanding a change in
response. Disasters can be viewed as a series of phases on a time continuum. Even
though the evolving situation may appear continuous, identifying and understanding
these phases helps to describe related needs and to conceptualize appropriate
disaster management activities. These phases are described below:
 1. Pre-emergency phase: the period before the disaster strikes may be used to
assess how often a particular community is exposed to different risks (risk mapping)
and how good is their preparedness. Protective actions can be undertaken based on
the disaster warning and the available resources, e.g. identifying temporary
shelters, stocking basic supplies, planning evacuation routes, monitoring trends, etc.
 2. Impact and flight phase: when a disaster strikes the hazard (fire, earthquake, floods,
conflicts, etc) may trigger the displacement of large number of people from their homes.
How long this phase lasts depends on the type of disaster, the number people affected and
the distance they must travel to find sanctuary. Search and rescue and other assistances,
e.g. providing transportation, shelter and basic supplies to affected people may be carried
out to reduce the loss of lives.
 3. Acute phase: this phase begins immediately after the impact of the disaster and marked by
intense, often reactive activities by many humanitarian agencies responding to media reports of
very high death rate (may be 5-60 times the normal death rate). The priority is to keep the
affected people alive. Security may be a major concern in complex emergency situations. Critical
services such as providing food, water, sanitation, basic health care, protection from violence and
harassment are to be quickly organized. This phase ends when crude death rate falls below
1/10,000 persons per day (the crude mortality rate for stable population in Africa is about
0.5/10,000 individual per day).
 4. Post emergency phase: the population movement usually slows down. This enables critical
services to be properly established and maintained. During this phase the cause of displacement
may be evolving. The displaced people wait for “something to happen” so that they can return
home, integrate with the local community or relocate else where. As international support
declines, the emphasis shifts to building local capacity of and promoting community participation.
Tracing reproductive health care, mental health care and other services may be initiated, based
on the epidemiological information. It is difficult to set time limits on the post-disaster time
phases or to accurately define the limits of each, even for one specific type of disaster. For
example, the emergency phase of a hurricane or a flood may be only a few days, or as long as a
week. A drought and a resulting famine can last for months or even a year or more.
 5. Repatriation phase: after the emergency situation is over, displaced people are
expected to return to their place of origin either on their own or with the help of relief
agencies. Repatriation may be either forced or voluntary.
 6. Rehabilitation or reconstruction phase: once permanent solution is obtained, the
focus shifts from relief to development. The aim is to help the affected community
become self-reliant. The responsibility of providing assistance is handed over to the
affected community, the local authorities, development agencies and other non-
governmental organizations. Because humanitarian and development technicians
have different approaches to providing assistance and the infrastructure for relief is
inadequate for development, the programs are re-oriented and redesigned.
Risk of Disaster and Disaster
risk equation
 The Disaster Management Act of 2005 defines Disaster Management as an integrated
process of planning, organizing, coordinating and implementing measures which are
necessary for,
1. Prevention of threat of any disaster
2. Reduction of risk of any disaster or its consequences
3. Readiness to deal with any disaster
4. Promptness in dealing with a disaster
5. Assessing the severity of the effects of any disaster
6. Rescue and relief
7. Rehabilitation and Reconstruction
Preparedness :

 Disaster Preparedness refers to measures taken to prepare for and reduce the effects
of disasters, be they natural or man-made
 This is achieved through research and planning in order to try to predict areas or
regions that may be at risk of disaster and where possible prevent these from
occurring and/or reduce the impact those disasters
 The measures that ensure the organized mobilization of personnel, funds,
equipments, and supplies within a safe environment for effective relief.
 Disaster preparedness is building up of capacities before a disaster situation prevails
inorder to reduce impacts.
 Its measures include inter alia, availability of food reserve, emergency reserve fund,
seed reserve, health facilities, warning systems, logistical infrastructure, relief manual,
and shelves of projects
 Continue..
 Disaster preparedness activities embedded with risk reduction measures
can prevent disaster situations and also result in saving maximum lives
and livelihoods during any disaster situation, enabling the affected
population to get back to normalcy within a short time period.

 Minimisation of loss of life and damage to property through facilitation of

effective disaster response and rehabilitation services when required.

 Preparedness is the main way of reducing the impact of disasters.

Community-based preparedness and management should be a high
priority in physical therapy practice management
What is disaster prevention ?

Disaster prevention is the outright avoidance of adverse impacts of hazards and related
disasters prevention (i.e. disaster prevention) expresses the concept and intention to
completely avoid potential adverse impacts through action taken in advance. Examples
include dams or embankments that eliminate flood risks, land-use regulations that do not
permit any settlement in high risk zones, and seismic engineering designs that ensure
the survival and function of a critical building in any likely earthquake. Very often the
complete avoidance of losses is not feasible and the task transforms to that of mitigation.
Partly for this reason, the terms prevention and mitigation are sometimes used
interchangeably in casual use.
 Mitigation and prevention efforts aim to reduce the potential damage
and suffering that disasters can cause.

 While disaster management cannot prevent disasters, it can prevent

them from becoming compounded as a result of neglecting causal
factors and manageable risks.

 Mitigation specifically refers to actions taken that can lessen the

severity of a disaster’s impact.

 Investing in measures that limit hazards can greatly reduce the burden
of disasters.
Strategies that disaster management professionals implement to protect vulnerable
communities and limit hazards include the following:
• Raising awareness about potential hazards and how to address them
• Educating the public about how to properly prepare for different types of disaster
• Installing and strengthening prediction and warning systems
Managing hazards and risks means planning to minimize a community’s vulnerability to
disasters. This can involve:
• Encouraging community members to buy appropriate insurance to protect their
properties and belongings
• Educating families and businesses on how to create effective disaster plans
• Promoting the use of fire-retardant materials in construction
• Advocating for capital works initiatives, such as the construction and maintenance of
levees
• Building partnerships between sectors and agencies at the federal, state, and local
levels to collaborate on mitigation projects
 Preparedness A state of
readiness to respond to
a disaster, crisis, or any other
type of emergency
situation. Prevention Actions
taken to avoid an incident or
to intervene in an effort to
stop an incident from
occurring for the purpose of
protecting lives and property.
 Mitigation :

 The definition of mitigation includes a wide variety of measures taken before

an event occurs that will prevent illness, injury, and death and limit the loss of
property. Taking steps to mitigate potential hazards has taken on increasing
favor in disaster preparedness circles, particularly in the international arena,
where the pursuit of disaster risk reduction (DRR) and disaster risk
management (DRM) is emphasized above efforts focused simply on disaster
event response.
 Mitigation :
 The absolutely stunning loss of life, illnesses, injury, psychological impact,
displacement from home and community, and social and financial consequences
of a disaster, coupled with its disproportionate impact on the already
disadvantaged, makes it imperative to fully implement the best principles and
practices of disaster mitigation. These principles and practices fall into two
types:
 Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) aims to reduce the damage caused by natural
hazards like earthquakes, floods, droughts, and cyclones, through the ethic of
prevention.
 Disaster Risk Management (DRM) includes management activities that
address and seek to correct or reduce disaster risks that are already present.
 Response…
 In India, the
National Disaster Management A
uthority
is responsible for planning for
mitigating effects of
natural disasters and anticipating
and avoiding
man-made disasters. It also
coordinates the capacity-building
and response of government
agencies to crises and
emergencies. The
National Disaster Response Forc
e
is an inter-government disaster
 Response

The response phase of an emergency may commence with Search and Rescue but in all cases
the focus will quickly turn to fulfilling the basic humanitarian needs of the affected
population.
 The Business Dictionary provide a more comprehensive definition for "disaster
response“. Aggregate of decisions and measures to (1) contain or mitigate the effects of a
disastrous event to prevent any further loss of life and/or property, (2) restore order in its
immediate aftermath, and (3) re-establish normality through reconstruction and re-rehabilitation
shortly thereafter. The first and immediate response is called emergency response.
1. Disaster response refers to actions taken during and immediately after a disaster to ensure that
its effects are minimized, and that people affected are given immediate relief and support.
2. These include providing food, water, shelter, and medical aid, removing people from danger,
among other outreach efforts.
3. Disaster recovery refers to the coordinated process of supporting disaster-affected communities
in reconstruction of physical infrastructure and restoration of emotional, social, economic and
physical well- being.
4. This includes re-building houses and businesses, and providing medical aid and counseling,
among other efforts.
Continue..
 The aim of emergency response is to provide immediate assistance to maintain life, improve health and
support the morale of the affected population. Such assistance may range from providing specific but limited
aid, such as assisting refugees with transport, temporary shelter, and food to establishing semi-permanent
settlements in camps and other locations. It also may involve initial repairs to damaged or diversion to
infrastructure.
 The focus in the response phase is on keeping people safe, preventing the next disasters and meeting the
basic needs of the people until more permanent and sustainable solutions can be found. The main
responsibility to address these needs and respond to a disaster lies with the government or governments in
whose territory the disaster has occurred. In addition, humanitarian organisations are often strongly present in
this phase of the disaster management cycle, particularly in countries where the government lacks the
resources to respond adequately to the needs.
 Common objectives for responders are:

• saving and protecting human life;

• relieving suffering;
• containing the emergency – limiting its escalation or spread and mitigating its impacts;
• providing the public and businesses with warnings, advice and information;
• protecting the health and safety of responding personnel;
• safeguarding the environment;
• as far as reasonably practicable, protecting property;
• maintaining or restoring critical activities;
• maintaining normal services at an appropriate level;
• promoting and facilitating self-help in affected communities;
• facilitating investigations and inquiries (e.g. by preserving the scene and effective records management);
• facilitating the recovery of the community (including the humanitarian assistance, economic, infrastructure and
environmental impacts);
• evaluating the response and recovery effort; and
• identifying and taking action to implement lessons identified.
Recovery..

 To rebuild after a disaster in an effort to return operations

back to normal
 The “recovery” phase takes place after a disaster. This phase is the
restoration of an organization following any impacts from a disaster.
By this time, the organization has achieved at least some degree of
physical, environmental, economic and social stability.
 The recovery phase of a disaster can last anywhere from six months
to a year (or even longer depending on the severity of the incident).
Continue..
 The International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) defines recovery as the
“decisions and actions taken after a disaster with a view to restoring or improving the
pre-disaster living conditions of the stricken community, while encouraging and
facilitating necessary adjustments to reduce disaster risk”. Recovery from a disaster is
thus primarily about:
• Shifting focus from saving lives to restoring livelihoods
• Effectively preventing the recurrence of crisis situations
• Harnessing conditions for future development
• Building on national capacities
• Empowering communities
• Determining/addressing root causes and vulnerabilities
Guiding Principles
 The guiding principles of the sustainable recovery approach are the following:
1. Mainstreaming disaster risk reduction in the recovery/development process
2. Proper assessment is a pre-requisite to successful recovery programming
3. Favouring participatory approaches and decentralised planning and programming
4. Contributing to the economic revitalisation of the affected communities
5. Building local and national capacities for increased resilience, risk management and
sustainable development
6. Taking advantage of ongoing initiatives
7. Gender sensitivity
8. Improving/maintaining coordination: development of a clear interface with existing
humanitarian coordination mechanisms
9. Demonstrative Effects
10.Monitoring, evaluating and learning
Planning for Recovery:
 The practice of designing a recovery framework as early as possible following the
disaster has proved successful in major recovery operations. The recovery framework
is a strategic tool that identifies and prioritises programming needs based on a
thorough assessment of damages, needs and capacities. It provides strategic
guidance and facilitates the coordination of a large number of initiatives and the
participation of multiple stakeholders.
 The overall objectives of a recovery framework are:
i) to organize the country’s response and approach
ii) to review and stock-take regarding the recovery needs to get the community/country
back on track towards sustainable development;
iii) to secure wide support, including financial and technical resources;
iv) to develop a partnership strategy with participation of multiple stakeholders, including
the affected communities
Worst Disasters in History of India
SNo. Disaster Year Description
1 Coronavirus Pandemic 2020 The coronavirus (COVID-19)
pandemic has been regarded as
humanity’s worst disaster since
World War II. It had a financial,
political, and social impact on
millions of people around the
world.
2 Kerala Floods 2018 It was the worst flood situation in
Kerala to date which impacted
the whole state.
3 Uttarakhand Flash Floods 2013 Uttarakhand suffered from a
severer catastrophic natural
disaster in the form of large and
devastating cloudbursts, and
landslides that caused flash
floods in the River Ganga.
4 Tsunami in Indian Ocean 2004 After the earthquake in 2004, a
major tsunami in Indian ocean
caused a lot of destruction in
parts of arts of southern India,
Andaman Nicobar Islands, Sri
Lanka, and Indonesia.
5 Gujarat Earthquake 2001 On 26 January 2001, Gujarat was
hit by the huge intensity of
earthquake causing devastation
in several parts of the state.
6 Odisha Super Cyclone 1999 It was one of the deadliest
storms to hit the state of Odisha
in 1999. It was also known as
Thank You