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Unit 4 BRAVING THE HAZARDS

earthquake (2001), the Mumbai-Gujarat floods • Name some of the major
(2005), the tsunami (2004), the Uttarkhand natural disasters faced
by India during this
flashfloods and the hurricane Phailin in coastal
century.
Orissa and Andhra Pradesh (2013).
• Which are the lifeline
The direct and indirect impacts of disasters,
support systems that get
either natural or industrial, are always damage, damaged in disasters?
destruction and death. When disaster strikes,
the lifeline support systems, namely communication,
power supply, water supply, drainage, etc. are damaged.
Moreover, healthcare and hospitals are also put under
severe stress. Commercial and economic activities are
also badly affected. Life almost comes to a standstill. The
psychological traumas caused by the disasters are
sometimes so severe that they span the whole life of the
victim. Therefore, along with other rehabilitation works,
psychological rehabilitation should also be given
• Which is the man-made
due importance. disaster mentioned here?
The impact is almost the same even in the case • Which section of the
of man-made disasters like riots. The most society is most affected
by disasters? Why?
affected are the poor sections of society, who
have to work daily to earn their livelihood.

In some natural disasters like cyclones, tsunami and
earthquake, it is the building structure which becomes
the cause of destruction and death. In developing
countries, only 30 per cent of the buildings are constructed
in accordance with the regulations laid down for ensuring
safety and security. Similarly, the lack of a
• What are the major
master-plan and the inferior quality of limitations in constructing
materials used for construction also aggravate safe and secure buildings?
the casualties arising out of disasters.
Therefore, both private and public buildings
• What measures need to
should be constructed according to the
be taken to ensure the
guidelines prescribed by law. Moreover, safety and security of the
constructions should strictly adhere to the buildings?
master-plan approved by the authorities. Above
all, good quality materials should be used for
• What is the requirement
construction.
in the areas vulnerable
The UNDAC,* along with the Government of to earthquakes in order
to reduce damage and
India, has jointly prepared an action-plan for cities
death?
and towns vulnerable to earthquakes. In
*(UNDAC - United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination)

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