JAMIA HAMDARD
SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY
Department of Computer Science and Technology
DISASTER MANAGEMENT
BTCSEAI 409
SUBMITTED TO: SUBMITTED BY:
Ms. Neha Abdul Malik 2023-350-002
Arsalan Raza 2023-350-007
Mohd. Rihan Yawar 2023-350-038
Sayyad Ayan Mehdi 2023-350-049
Table of Contents
[Link]. TITLE Page No.
1. Introduction 1
2. Case Profile 1
3. Indian Meteorological Department 2
4. Key Functions of IMD 3
5. Technology infrastructure of IMD 4
6. Case example and challenges 5
7. Forest Conservation Act(1980) 6
8. Coastal Region Zones 7
9. Conclusion 8
10. References 9
Case Study: Ind ia n M eteo ro log ica l Depa rtment
Introduction
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, is the principal agency
responsible for meteorological observations, weather forecasting, and seismology in India. Since its
inauguration, the IMD has played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events
through timely warnings and accurate predictions, supporting agriculture, water resource
management, and disaster preparedness across the nation. Its contributions have been instrumental in
safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the overall socio-economic stability of India.
It was formed under the ministry of Earth Sciences after the realization of its need by the government
as the catastrophic event unfolded in Calcutta(nowadays known as Kolkata) in 1864 in which
more than 40K lost their lives in the western ghat region due to a devastating cyclone with a wind
speed of 88 km/hr. From its foundation, it used to give us various information about heatwaves,
cyclones and floods and tells us about different and changing climates with time and region. It also
give indications to neighboring countries about the climate behavior and it has recently completed
150 years in 2025 planning to launch an event named as “Undivided India” in which neighboring
countries will also take part.
Case Profile
I. Date: January 15, 1875
II. Location: Formation of the IMD in 1875, headquartered in Kolkata (then Calcutta).
III. Early Objectives: focus on systematic weather observations and issuing early warnings for cyclones
IV. Early Data Collection Methods: Use of barometers, thermometers, rain gauges, and other basic instruments.
V. Early Data Analysis and Forecasting: Simple statistical methods for analyzing rainfall patterns
and issuing forecasts.
VI. Consolidation and Expansion (Early to Mid-20th Century):
• Shifting Headquarters: Relocation of the IMD headquarters to Shimla and later to Pune.
• Increase in the number of surface observatories and upper-air sounding stations.
• Establishment of regional meteorological centers.
VII. Technological Advancements
• Introduction of radio sound waves for upper-air observations.
• Adoption of synoptic charts and weather maps for analysis.
VIII. Development of Forecasting Techniques
• Empirical and statistical forecasting models.
• Introduction of more sophisticated techniques for cyclone forecasting.
IX. Data Management Practices:
• Improvements in data storage and retrieval systems.
• Standardization of data formats and quality control procedures.
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Indian Meteorological Department
I. Background & History
A. Establishment & Evolution:
Established in 1875 as a national agency responsible for meteorological observations and
weather forecasting. [IMD Official Website - About Us section, link [Link]]
Evolved from a centralized system focusing on basic data collection to a sophisticated
organization incorporating advanced technology for comprehensive weather and climate
monitoring.
Initially focused on providing data for agriculture and shipping; expanded mandate to
encompass public safety and disaster management.
B. Mandate & Role:
Primary role- Weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and seismology.
National Meteorological Service of India under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. [Ministry of
Earth Sciences website, link- [Link]]
Responsible for providing weather-related information and warnings to various sectors
including agriculture, water resources, aviation, shipping, tourism, and disaster management.
Plays a crucial role in assessing and predicting the impact of climate change on the Indian
subcontinent.
II. Key Functions: Weather Forecasting & Monitoring
C. Weather Forecasting (Temporal Scales):
Short-range (Up to 3 days):
▪ Focus on immediate weather conditions and potential hazards like heavy rainfall,
thunderstorms, and heat waves.
▪ Crucial for daily activities and providing timely warnings to local communities.
Medium-range (3-10 days):
▪ Provides a broader outlook on weather patterns, useful for agriculture and water resource
management.
▪ Helps in planning and mitigating potential disruptions caused by weather events.
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Long-range (Beyond 10 days, seasonal):
▪ Primarily focuses on monsoon forecasts (onset, intensity, and distribution).
▪ Crucial for agriculture planning as monsoon rainfall is vital for Indian agriculture.
▪ Example Statistic: IMD uses statistical and dynamical models to issue the Long Range Forecast
(LRF) for the southwest monsoon rainfall over the country as a whole. The forecast issued in
April typically provides a probabilistic assessment of the overall rainfall amount. [IMD
Monsoon Forecast Reports, link is available in IMD website during forecast season]
D. Cyclone and Monsoon Tracking:
▪ Continuous monitoring of cyclone formation, intensification, and movement using satellite
imagery and Doppler radar data.
▪ Issues cyclone warnings to coastal regions, facilitating timely evacuation and disaster
preparedness.
▪ Example: IMD provides a five-day track and intensity forecast for tropical cyclones in the
North Indian Ocean.
E. Monsoon Monitoring:
▪ Tracks the progress of the monsoon winds across the Indian subcontinent.
▪ Monitors rainfall distribution and intensity, providing crucial information for agriculture and
water management.
▪ Declares the onset and withdrawal of the monsoon.
F. Disaster Early Warning Systems:
Develops and operates early warning systems for various weather-related disasters including:
▪ Cyclones
▪ Heavy rainfall and floods
▪ Heat waves and cold waves
▪ Thunderstorms and lightning
Deliver warnings to relevant government agencies, disaster management authorities, and the
general public through various channels (e.g,CNBC,DD, website, media broadcasts).
Utilizes impact-based forecasting to provide specific information on potential impacts of
weather events, aiding in targeted disaster response.
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III. Technological Infrastructure:(Modern era technology- 21st Century)
A. Doppler Radars:
➢ Network of Doppler radars deployed across the country, especially in coastal areas, for real-
time monitoring of rainfall intensity and wind patterns.
➢ Provides crucial data for cyclone tracking and short-range weather forecasting.
➢ Example: IMD operates a network of X-band, S-band and C-band Doppler Weather Radars
(DWRs). These radars provide high-resolution data on rainfall intensity, wind velocity, and
other meteorological parameters. [Source: IMD website - Radar Network, link available on
IMD website]
B. Satellites:
➢ Utilizes satellite imagery from Indian and international satellites (e.g., INSAT series,
Meteostar) for large-scale weather monitoring and cloud observations.
➢ Provides critical data for cyclone tracking, rainfall estimation, and sea surface temperature
monitoring.
➢ Example: Data from INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites are extensively used by IMD for
weather forecasting.
C. High-Performance Computing:
➢ Employs high-performance computing (HPC) systems for running complex weather models.
➢ Enables the development and implementation of advanced numerical weather prediction
(NWP) models.
➢ Improves the accuracy and resolution of weather forecasts.
➢ Example: IMD uses supercomputers to run global and regional NWP models.
IV. Impact & Case Example:
A. Role During Cyclones/Extreme Weather Events:
Case Example: Cyclone Fani (2019)
▪ IMD provided accurate and timely warnings, allowing for large-scale evacuation of vulnerable
populations in Odisha and West Bengal.
▪ Early warnings helped in minimizing loss of life and property.
▪ IMD's track forecast was highly accurate, enabling effective disaster management planning.
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▪ Statistic Example: The IMD issued warnings well in advance, allowing Odisha to evacuate over
1.2 million people, leading to a significantly reduced death toll compared to previous cyclones.
[ NDMA Website, link to be [Link]]
V. Challenges:
A. Accuracy of Forecasts:
Improving the accuracy of weather forecasts, especially for extreme weather events, remains
a challenge.
Factors influencing forecast accuracy include:
▪ Complexity of weather systems
▪ Limitations in data availability
▪ Computational power constraints (though its improving)
Focus on improving NWP models and data assimilation techniques.
B. Inter-Agency Coordination:
Effective coordination among various government agencies, disaster management authorities,
and local communities is crucial for effective disaster response.
Need for streamlined communication channels and standardized protocols for information
sharing.
Addressing the "last mile connectivity" to ensure warnings reach vulnerable populations in
remote areas.
C. Climate Change Impacts:
Climate change is exacerbating extreme weather events, making forecasting and disaster
management more challenging.
Need for improved understanding of climate change impacts on regional weather patterns.
Developing climate-resilient infrastructure and adaptation strategies.
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❖ Forest Infrastructure Act (FIA):-
(Assuming FIA refers to either the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 or updated Forest laws/framework)
I. Overview-
I. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (or updated Forest Laws/Framework - FIA)
A. Introduction: The Forest Conservation Act (FCA) of 1980 is a pivotal piece of legislation in
India's forest governance framework. Enacted to address rapid deforestation driven by
developmental projects, it aims to regulate the diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes. Its
primary role is to maintain ecological balance and protect India's natural heritage.
B. Objectives and Key Provisions:
1. Objectives: Detailing the primary objectives of the Act/FIA. This should include preventing
deforestation, maintaining ecological balance, and promoting sustainable forest management.
2. Key Provisions: the core provisions of the Act/FIA, focusing on:
▪ Requirement for prior approval from the Central Government (MOEFCC) for diverting forest
land for non-forestry purposes.
▪ Definition of "forest land" and activities considered non-forestry.
▪ Provisions for compensatory afforestation and net present value (NPV) assessments.
▪ Penalties for violations of the Act/FIA.
▪ Any recent amendments or modifications to these provisions.
II. Role in Forest Governance
The FCA significantly restricts the discretionary powers of state governments in diverting forest land. It
mandates prior approval from the Central Government for any non-forestry activity within notified forests,
effectively placing the Centre at the heart of forest conservation decisions. This ensures a standardized
approach and prevents unchecked exploitation of forest resources.
B. Compensatory Afforestation:
1. Mandate and Implementation: The legal requirement for compensatory afforestation when forest land
is diverted.
2. Challenges and Effectiveness: The challenges associated with compensatory afforestation, such as land
availability, species selection, and the long-term effectiveness of these plantations in restoring ecological
functions.
III. Institutional Mechanism
The Act established a comprehensive institutional mechanism. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change (MoEFCC) is the nodal agency responsible for implementing the FCA. Project
proposals involving forest land diversion are scrutinized by the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC), an
expert body that evaluates the environmental and socio-economic impact. The FAC's recommendations
form the basis for the MoEFCC's final decision, which can include approvals, rejections, or conditional
clearances.
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IV. Case Example: Niyamgiri Bauxite Mining-
The proposed bauxite mining project in the Niyamgiri hills of Odisha, home to the Dongria
Kondh tribal community, serves as a significant case. The FCA, along with the Forest Rights Act
(FRA), played a crucial role in challenging the project. Following legal battles and community
resistance highlighting the project's devastating impact on the environment and the tribal
community’s livelihood, the Supreme Court mandated that the consent of the affected tribal
communities be obtained. This case demonstrated the power of the FCA, in conjunction with
other legislations, in protecting indigenous rights and preventing environmental degradation.
V. Controversies-
While the FCA has been instrumental in slowing deforestation, it has also faced criticism. One
major controversy revolves around the definition of "forest land," which can lead to ambiguities
and disputes. Furthermore, the stringent regulations can sometimes hinder legitimate
developmental projects, particularly in areas with significant forest cover. The discretionary
power vested in the Central government has also been questioned, with some arguing that it can
lead to bureaucratic delays and political influence. Finding a balance between environmental
protection and socio-economic development remains a persistent challenge in the
implementation of the FCA.
❖ India's Coastal Regulations Zone (CRZ): A Balancing Act
India's Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification, issued under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, serves
as a critical framework for managing and protecting the nation's ecologically sensitive coastal areas. It aims to
balance development activities with environmental conservation, impacting a diverse range of stakeholders.
I. CRZ Classification:
The CRZ notification classifies coastal areas based on their ecological sensitivity and development
status:
• CRZ-I: Ecologically sensitive areas like mangroves, coral reefs, and critical habitats; no new
construction is permitted except for essential activities.
• CRZ-II: Areas developed up to or close to the shoreline; regulations focus on planned urbanization
and redevelopment.
• CRZ-III: Relatively undisturbed areas, often rural; certain activities like agriculture and tourism are
permitted under specific guidelines.
• CRZ-IV: Water areas covering tidal influenced water bodies; regulates fishing, aquaculture, and
associated activities.
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II. Purpose & Objectives:
The CRZ's primary objectives include:
• Protecting coastal ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Preventing coastal erosion and mitigating natural disasters.
• Promoting sustainable development activities in coastal areas.
• Ensuring livelihood security for coastal communities.
III. Key Stakeholders:
A wide array of stakeholders are impacted by the CRZ regulations:
• Coastal Communities: Fishermen, farmers, and other traditional coastal inhabitants.
• Developers & Industries: Tourism operators, infrastructure companies, and industries with coastal
operations.
• Government Agencies: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), State
Coastal Zone Management Authorities (SCZMAs).
• Environmental Organizations & NGOs: Advocate for environmental protection and sustainable
development.
IV. Case Examples & Challenges:
While the CRZ framework aims for comprehensive coastal management, challenges remain. The Kerala
Coastal Zone Management Authority's (KCZMA) enforcement of CRZ violations leading to
demolitions, like the Maradu flats case, highlights the complexities of implementation. Balancing
tourism development with environmental protection in Goa also exemplifies the ongoing tension.
Challenges include:
• Conflicting Interests: Balancing development aspirations with conservation needs.
• Enforcement Issues: Illegal construction and violations of CRZ norms.
• Climate Change Impacts: Increasing sea levels and extreme weather events necessitate adaptive
management strategies.
• Lack of Awareness: Limited understanding of CRZ regulations among stakeholders.
Conclusion:-
The Overall study report conclusively summarizes the points given upon Indian Meteorological
Dept.(IMD), Forest conversation act(1980) and Coastal regulation zone(CRZ) successfully and talks
about their different aspects exploring the terms associated with their purpose and objectives, key
functions and major stakeholders of their projects. It also enlighten us with several case scenario in
which we found the problem deeply concerned, took lessons from it and applied in further
advancements of future. It tells us about the challenges faced during its execution time and how
efficiently it worked out at that time of recordings.
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❖ References:-
❖ [Link] (pg-2)
❖ Understanding the Indian Met Department (IMD)(pg 3&4)
❖ [Link] (pg 5)
❖ [Link]
meteorological-department-9107666/ (pg 1)
❖ [Link] (pg 2)
❖ Forest Conservation Act ,1980 Explained! | Goals of Environment Act | UPSCAdda247 (pg 6)
❖ Coastal Regulation Zone in India, Kerala Govt demolishes illegal high rises, Current Affairs 2020
(pg 8, case example)
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