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  • Q.8. Discuss the preparedness and mitigation measures that should be adopted for reducing the impact of earthquakes in the context of Assam.

    • 14,Oct 2024
    • Posted By : SPM Academy
    • 0 Comments
    • APSC2023
    • GS3

    Assam, located in the seismically active Zone V (the highest earthquake risk zone in India), is highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its proximity to the Himalayan seismic belt and the Shillong Plateau. Major earthquakes in the past, such as the 1950 Assam earthquake (8.6 magnitude), have caused extensive damage to life and infrastructure. To reduce the impact of earthquakes in Assam, preparedness and mitigation measures must be robust and proactive, integrating government initiatives, technological advancements, and community involvement.

    Preparedness and Mitigation Measures

    A. Seismic-Resilient Infrastructure Development

    One of the most critical steps in earthquake preparedness is ensuring that buildings and infrastructure are designed to withstand seismic activity. This involves:

    • Implementation of Building Codes: The National Building Code (NBC) of India provides specific guidelines for constructing earthquake-resistant structures. The Assam government has made adherence to these codes mandatory, particularly in urban areas where population density and infrastructure development are high. Strict enforcement of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) IS: 1893, which lays down criteria for earthquake-resistant construction, is vital.
    • Retrofitting Existing Structures: Many old buildings in Assam, especially in cities like Guwahati, are not earthquake-resistant. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has initiated programs to retrofit critical infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and public offices to meet seismic safety standards. Retrofitting reduces the risk of collapse during an earthquake.
    • Smart Cities Mission: Guwahati is one of the cities under the Smart Cities Mission, which emphasizes disaster-resilient infrastructure. Integrating seismic resilience in urban planning through the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing technology is a part of the city’s development strategy.

    B. Public Awareness and Capacity Building

    Preparedness at the community level is crucial for reducing casualties and damage during an earthquake. Public awareness campaigns and capacity-building initiatives can help build a culture of safety and preparedness.

    • Earthquake Drills and Training: Regular earthquake drills in schools, offices, and public institutions are necessary to ensure that people know how to respond during a seismic event. The ASDMA conducts such drills in partnership with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). These drills emphasize Drop, Cover, and Hold On techniques, which are critical in reducing injuries during tremors.
    • Capacity Building for First Responders: Training local communities, particularly in rural areas, to act as first responders is crucial. The Aapda Mitra Scheme, launched by the NDMA, aims to train volunteers in disaster response, including earthquake preparedness. Assam has enrolled local youth and volunteers under this program to strengthen grassroots-level response.
    • Use of Digital Platforms: The DISHA App launched by the Assam government helps disseminate real-time information regarding disaster preparedness, including earthquake alerts and safety measures.

    C. Early Warning Systems and Seismic Monitoring

    Early detection and warning systems are critical to reducing the impact of earthquakes. Although earthquakes cannot be predicted, seismic monitoring networks can help in understanding patterns and issuing immediate warnings.

    • Seismic Monitoring Stations: The North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), in collaboration with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), has installed seismic stations across Assam and the North-East to monitor tremors in real-time. Data from these stations help the government take quick action and mobilize resources effectively.
    • National Earthquake Risk Mitigation Project (NERMP): Assam is part of the NERMP, which aims to enhance the early warning and risk mitigation capabilities of seismically vulnerable states. This includes setting up Earthquake Early Warning Systems (EEWS), which can issue alerts seconds before the tremor reaches populated areas, helping people take cover.

    D. Land Use and Urban Planning

    Effective land-use planning and zoning regulations play a key role in mitigating earthquake risks. In Assam, unplanned urban growth, particularly in Guwahati, has increased vulnerability to earthquakes. Proper zoning, which restricts construction in high-risk areas, is essential.

    • Zoning Regulations: Assam needs to enforce stricter zoning laws that prevent construction in areas prone to liquefaction or near fault lines. The ASDMA has proposed amendments to building regulations that focus on hazard mapping and avoiding construction in highly vulnerable zones.
    • Relocation and Rehabilitation: In areas identified as highly vulnerable to earthquakes, such as parts of the Brahmaputra Valley, relocation of critical facilities may be necessary. For example, moving hospitals and schools from high-risk zones to safer areas can reduce casualties in the event of a major earthquake.

    E. Government Initiatives and Disaster Response Plans

    Several government initiatives have been put in place to ensure comprehensive disaster preparedness and response.

    • National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP): Assam follows the guidelines laid down by the NDMP, which includes specific action plans for earthquake-prone regions. It emphasizes community preparedness, resource management, and emergency response coordination.
    • Assam State Disaster Management Plan: The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has developed a state-specific plan for earthquake mitigation. This plan integrates local resources and capabilities with national disaster management efforts to ensure a rapid and coordinated response. The ASDMA’s 24×7 emergency operations center ensures quick communication and coordination during earthquakes.
    • NDMA Guidelines on Earthquake Management (2016): The NDMA has provided comprehensive guidelines for earthquake risk mitigation. These guidelines emphasize strengthening public infrastructure, enhancing community preparedness, and improving response mechanisms, which are being implemented in Assam through local disaster management bodies.

    Challenges in Earthquake Preparedness in Assam

    1. Inadequate Enforcement of Building Codes: Despite the existence of stringent building codes, enforcement is often weak, particularly in rural areas. This increases vulnerability to earthquake damage.
    2. Limited Awareness in Remote Areas: Rural areas of Assam, especially those close to the foothills of the Himalayas, often lack sufficient awareness and preparedness measures, making them more vulnerable to earthquakes.
    3. Funding Constraints: Retrofitting old structures and building new earthquake-resistant infrastructure requires significant investment. Financial constraints often delay such projects in Assam.

    Earthquake preparedness and mitigation in Assam require a multi-faceted approach, integrating modern technology, infrastructure development, community involvement, and strict enforcement of regulations. Government initiatives, such as the NERMP, building code enforcement, and public awareness campaigns, are crucial, but they must be accompanied by local-level capacity building and effective urban planning. Addressing these challenges will help Assam better withstand the devastating impacts of earthquakes and ensure a safer future for its people.

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