Himadri Maitra's Page

Vulnerability Assessment : Meteorological records of the wind speed and the directions give the probability of the winds in the region. Past records and paths can give the pattern of occurrence for particular wind speeds. A hazard map will illustrate the areas vulnerable to the cyclone in any given year. It will be useful to estimate the severity of the cyclone and various damage intensities in the region. The map is prepared with data inputs of past climatological records, history of wind speed, frequency of flooding etc. List of most vulnerable villages based on past disasters and rainfall position should be prepared.

Land use control: It is designed so that least critical activities are placed in vulnerable areas. Location of settlements in the flood plains is utmost risk. Siting of key facilities must be marked in the land use.

Engineered Structures: Structures need to be built to withstand wind forces. Good site selection is also important. Majority of buildings in coastal areas are built with locally available materials and have no engineering inputs. Good constructions practice should be adopted.

Community Based Mitigation: Construction of cyclone resistant houses and strengthening of existing houses should be done through community participation. Local engineers and masons can take part in the construction of the buildings in their area and demonstrate to the people about disaster resistant construction methods. Multipurpose cyclone shelters should be used as schools or community centers in normal times. In case of cyclone or floods, community should take shelter in these designed buildings. The local communities will be responsible for the maintenance and management of these community shelters. Protection measures should be taken for the livestocks, the boats, fishing nets, household items and other possessions.