1.

Define the term disaster management and explain its stages in disaster
preparedness and planning management

Disaster management refers to the coordinated efforts and strategies implemented to

prevent, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from the impacts of natural or
human-made disasters. It aims to minimize the adverse effects of disasters on human
life, property, and the environment through systematic planning and effective resource
management.

Stages of Disaster Preparedness and Planning Management

Disaster management is typically structured around a four-phase cycle, often referred

to as the Disaster Management Cycle. The stages are:

1. Mitigation

• Objective: Reduce or eliminate the risks and impacts of disasters.

• Activities:

o Building codes and zoning regulations

o Infrastructure upgrades (e.g., flood levees, earthquake-resistant

buildings)

o Public education and awareness programs

o Environmental management (e.g., reforestation, wetland preservation)

2. Preparedness

• Objective: Ensure readiness and the ability to effectively respond when a

disaster occurs.

• Activities:

o Developing emergency plans and procedures

o Conducting training and simulation exercises

o Stockpiling essential supplies and equipment

o Setting up early warning systems and communication networks

3. Response

• Objective: Provide immediate assistance to maintain life, improve health, and

support the morale of the affected population.

• Activities:
 o Search and rescue operations

o Emergency medical care

o Provision of food, water, and shelter

o Damage assessment and coordination of relief efforts

4. Recovery

• Objective: Restore the affected area to its previous state or better and reduce
future disaster risk.

• Activities:

o Rebuilding infrastructure and homes

o Restoring public services (e.g., water, electricity, transportation)

o Providing financial assistance and counseling

o Evaluating the disaster response for future improvement

2 .Explain Disaster Management Cycle

It is an ongoing process of managing resources to confront a potential disaster or

coordinate with various organizations.

Phases of the Disaster Management Cycle:

1. Preparedness Phase (or Phase of Readiness):

It is the phase where governments and communities plan and get ready to deal
with disasters effectively before they happen.
This is the "Get Ready" phase.

Activities:

o Early warning systems (e.g., tsunami, cyclone alerts)

o Public awareness campaigns (posters, drills, media)

o Emergency drills & simulations in schools, hospitals, etc.

o Training of first responders (fire-fighters, health workers)

o Creating evacuation plans and routes

o Stockpiling relief supplies

o Developing communication plans

 2. Mitigation Phase:
It involves measures taken to reduce the severity or likelihood of a disaster. It
focuses on long-term risk reduction.
This is the "Stop it before it happens" phase.

Activities:

o Building flood barriers

o Embankments or levees

o Constructing earthquake-resistant buildings

o Zoning laws to prevent construction in flood plains or fault zones

o Retrofitting older structures to make them safer

3. Disaster Phase:
This is when the disaster actually strikes — the occurrence of the natural or
man-made event causing harm.

4. Response Phase:
Refers to the immediate actions taken during and right after a disaster to
reduce losses and ensure safety.
This is the "Act now" phase.

Activities:

o Search and rescue operations

o First aid and medical support

o Distribution of emergency supplies (food, water, shelter)

o Firefighting, evacuation, and crowd control

o Restoring emergency communication systems

o Temporary shelters and field hospitals

5. Recovery Phase (or Rehabilitation Phase):

Involves long-term activities after the initial emergency has passed, aiming to
restore normalcy and rebuild communities.
This is the "Bounce back better" phase.

Activities:

o Reconstruction of homes, roads, schools, hospitals, etc.

 o Providing financial aid and insurance compensation

o Mental health counseling and community support

o Restoring essential services like electricity and water

o Rebuilding in safer locations ("Build Back Better")

o Updating disaster plans based on lessons learned

3.Describe the psychological and social dimensions of disasters

Psychological Dimensions of Disasters

Psychological dimensions refer to the emotional and mental impacts disasters have on
individuals. These are intangible effects that cannot be seen but deeply affect victims.

• Common responses include fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, depression, and

shock.

• Some victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress
reactions, or psychosomatic illnesses.

• Vulnerable groups like children and the elderly are especially affected.

• Counseling and mental health support are essential for recovery.

Social Dimensions of Disasters

Social dimensions involve the relief and recovery efforts required after a disaster and
the effects on community life.

• Key needs include food, water, clothing, medical care, and temporary shelters.

• Disasters can lead to displacement, loss of livelihood, and breakdown of social

systems.

• Relief efforts must ensure fair distribution of aid and prevent disease
outbreaks.

• Long-term recovery requires community rebuilding and support for vulnerable

groups.

4 .How the Structural and non structural measures in disaster risk reduction ?

Structural and Non-Structural Measures in Disaster Risk Reduction

Structural Measures:
These are engineering or physical constructions designed to reduce or avoid the
impact of natural or human-made hazards. The goal is to enhance resistance and
resilience using engineering techniques or technology.

Examples from the image:

• Dams and levees – to prevent flooding

• Earthquake-resistant buildings – to withstand seismic activity

• Stormwater drainage systems – to manage heavy rainfall and reduce urban

flooding

• Landslide retaining walls – to stabilize slopes in landslide-prone areas

Non-Structural Measures:
These are policies, knowledge, and practices aimed at reducing disaster risk without
physical construction. They focus on education, planning, behavior change, and
preparedness.

Examples from the image:

• Risk assessments and early warning systems – to prepare for possible hazards

• Land-use planning and zoning regulation – to avoid building in high-risk areas

• Public education and awareness campaigns – to inform and prepare

communities

5.Describe a note on urban disasters

Urban Disasters

Urban disasters refer to natural or human-made disasters that primarily affect cities
and urban areas, where population density and infrastructure are high.

Urbanization and Its Impact

• Urbanization is the process where a growing number of people migrate to cities

for better opportunities.

• This growth often leads to the conversion of natural ecosystems and

agricultural lands into:

o Housing developments
 o Shopping centers

o Commercial establishments

• Such unplanned development often ignores environmental sustainability and

increases vulnerability to disasters.

Causes of Urban Disasters

• Poor planning and zoning

• Weak enforcement of building codes

• Overcrowded and poorly constructed settlements (e.g., slums)

• Inadequate drainage and waste management systems

• High usage and storage of flammable or hazardous materials

Types of Urban Disasters

1. Fire Disasters – Often due to electrical faults, gas leaks, or industrial accidents

2. Chemical Explosions – Common in industrial zones or due to improper storage

3. Floods – Resulting from blocked drains, poor stormwater systems, and

excessive concretization

4. Building Collapses – Caused by substandard construction or aging

infrastructure

5. Transportation Accidents – Road, rail, or air accidents in densely populated

areas

6. Urban Earthquakes – Magnified impact due to dense buildings and lack of

preparedness

Consequences

• High loss of life and property

• Disruption of essential services like water, electricity, and transport

• Long-term economic and social impacts

• Environmental degradation

6.Explain the benefits and technology used in early warning systems

Early Warning Systems (EWS)

Definition:
Early Warning Systems are a set of coordinated tools and processes designed to
provide timely and effective information about potential hazards. This allows
individuals, communities, and governments to take action to reduce risk and harm.

Benefits of Early Warning Systems:

1. Saves Lives – Alerts help people evacuate or take precautions before a disaster
strikes.

2. Reduces Damage – Preventive action minimizes destruction of property and

infrastructure.

3. Improves Preparedness – Communities can plan and respond better with early
alerts.

4. Supports Government Planning – Helps authorities in mobilizing emergency

resources.

5. Builds Resilience – Enhances awareness and readiness in vulnerable areas.

6. Cost-Effective – Reduces economic loss by preventing large-scale damage.

Types of Hazards Using EWS:

1. Meteorological Hazards – Cyclones, storms, extreme heat/cold

2. Hydrological Hazards – Floods, tsunamis

3. Geological Hazards – Earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions

4. Biological Hazards – Disease outbreaks (e.g., COVID-19)

Technologies Used in EWS:

1. Satellites and Radars – For weather and storm monitoring

2. Drones & Remote Sensing – For real-time assessment and data collection

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Modeling – Predicting disaster patterns and
risk areas

4. Mobile Networks and Apps – Sending emergency alerts to the public

5. Seismographs – Detecting and measuring earthquakes

7.Risk is Usually calculated using the simple formula =

Hazard * vulnerablility /capacity

8. The bounce back and build back better is the phase = Recovery Phase

9.Define Early Warning system(EWS) ?

Early Warning System (EWS) – Definition and Explanation

An Early Warning System (EWS) is a framework that helps detect, monitor, and
communicate potential hazards in advance, giving individuals, communities, and
authorities time to act and reduce the impact of disasters.

It includes a combination of tools, technologies, and processes designed to:

1. Detect and monitor hazards – such as cyclones, floods, earthquakes, or disease

outbreaks.

2. Analyze and forecast risk using data and scientific modeling.

3. Communicate timely alerts to vulnerable populations.

4. Support response actions that reduce risk and protect life, property, and the
environment.

Key Components of EWS:

1. Risk Knowledge – Understanding hazards and vulnerabilities.

2. Monitoring & Warning Services – Using technology to track risks.

3. Dissemination & Communication – Sharing clear and timely warnings.

4. Response Capability – Communities and governments must know how to

respond effectively.

Purpose:

• To minimize loss of life and property.

• To enable preparedness and early action.

• To support disaster risk reduction and resilience building.

10.Full Form of NDMA ?

National Disaster Management Authority.

13. Explain the Post disaster environment response ?

The Post-Disaster Environmental Response refers to the actions taken immediately
after a disaster to assess, control, and reduce environmental damage and risks. These
actions aim to protect human health, restore ecosystems, and support recovery and
rebuilding efforts.

Key Activities in Post-Disaster Environmental Response:

1. Damage Assessment

o Identify pollution, waste, and damage to natural resources (water, air,

soil, forests, etc.).

o Assess damage to infrastructure like sewage systems, water supply, and

industries.

2. Cleanup and Waste Management

o Safely collect and dispose of debris, hazardous waste, and chemicals.

o Prevent further environmental contamination.

3. Monitoring and Health Protection

o Monitor air and water quality to detect risks.

o Ensure safe drinking water and sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks.

4. Restoration of Ecosystems

o Begin repairing damaged ecosystems (e.g., reforestation, restoring

wetlands).

o Protect wildlife and natural habitats.

5. Rebuilding with Sustainability

o Encourage eco-friendly rebuilding (e.g., green infrastructure, climate-

resilient systems).

o Integrate environmental safety into long-term recovery plans.

Importance:

• Prevents secondary disasters like disease outbreaks or pollution.

• Ensures sustainable recovery and better preparedness for future hazards.

• Protects biodiversity, human health, and natural resources.

15. Explain the DRR program at the national , state and local levels

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) programs aim to reduce the damage caused by natural
and man-made disasters by building resilience, preparedness, and response capacity at
every level of governance. Here’s how DRR is implemented across different levels in
India:

1.National Level (NDMA – National Disaster Management Authority):

• Forms national disaster management policies and guidelines.

• Coordinates with ministries, armed forces, and technical agencies.

• Develops the National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP).

• Supports early warning systems (e.g., IMD, INCOIS) and national awareness
campaigns.

2. State Level (SDMA – State Disaster Management Authority):

• Prepares the State Disaster Management Plan (SDMP).

• Coordinates with districts and state departments (health, PWD, irrigation, etc.).

• Organizes mock drills and capacity-building programs.

• Ensures DRR is part of state infrastructure and development planning.

3. Local Level (DDMA – District Disaster Management Authority):

• Develops district and village-level disaster management plans.

• Trains local response teams (fire, police, health workers).

• Promotes community awareness and school safety programs.

• Leads on-ground action during disasters.

16.Describe the key activities of national management authority

• Policy Making & Planning

NDMA creates national policies, disaster management plans, and guidelines for
effective disaster management and coordination at all levels of government.
• Disaster Risk Reduction
It works on strategies to reduce disaster risks by promoting mitigation efforts,
hazard mapping, and assessing vulnerabilities in various regions.
 • Preparedness & Capacity Building
NDMA focuses on enhancing preparedness through training programs, capacity
building, conducting simulation exercises, and developing emergency response
plans.
• Early Warning Systems & Technology
NDMA establishes and maintains advanced early-warning systems to detect and
predict disasters, utilizing technologies like GIS, remote sensing, and
communication networks for timely alerts.
• Response Coordination & Support
During disasters, NDMA coordinates the response efforts by activating
emergency centers, mobilizing resources, and ensuring effective
communication between agencies involved in disaster management.
• Relief & Rehabilitation Support
After a disaster, NDMA ensures the efficient distribution of relief supplies such
as food, shelter, and medical aid, and provides guidance for long-term recovery
and rebuilding.
• Public Awareness & Community Involvement
NDMA works to raise awareness about disaster risks and safety measures,
engaging local communities through campaigns, drills, and involving volunteers
at the grassroots level.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) & Guidelines
NDMA develops SOPs and operational guidelines to ensure clear roles and
responsibilities for various stakeholders involved in disaster management,
ensuring a standardized approach across all levels of government and agencies.

17. Types of hazards that use EWS =

Natural (like floods, cyclones, earthquakes), biological (like disease outbreaks),

technological (like industrial accidents), and environmental (like forest fires).

18. Who is the Chairperson of National Disaster Management Authority at federal

level ?

Prime Minister is Shri Narendra Modi.

19.Define Capacity in disaster management ?

In disaster management, capacity refers to the resources, strengths, and capabilities a
community, organization, or country has to effectively manage disaster risks and
respond to emergencies. It includes:

1. Institutional Capacity: Governance and coordination mechanisms.

2. Human Capacity: Skills, knowledge, and training of people.

3. Physical and Technical Capacity: Infrastructure and technology for disaster

management.

4. Financial Capacity: Available financial resources for response and recovery.

5. Social Capacity: Community networks and cooperation.

6. Environmental Capacity: Resilience of the natural environment to disasters.

20.Give any one mitigation measure of cyclones ?

Early Warning Systems for Cyclones:

• Timely alerts for preparation and evacuation.

• Reduces casualties and damage.