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1st January 2024 (10 Topics)

Floods and a 'preventive measure' that needs review

Context:

While turning off electricity during severe weather can save lives, promptly restoring power is equally crucial to prevent potential issues for a larger population.

Consequences of Decision-Making

  • Visible and Obvious Consequences: Decisions made during Cyclone Michuang had immediate and apparent effects, such as the release of reservoir water during the 2015 floods, leading to tragic outcomes due to inadequate warning.
  • Hidden and Subtle Consequences: Some consequences were less evident, like the extended power outage post-cyclone, posing risks to the elderly and compromising safety in homes, highlighting the need for a balanced approach.
  • Accountability for Choices: Decision-makers should be held accountable for their choices during a crisis, recognizing the dynamic nature of decision-making and the potential impact on public safety and well-being.

Complexities of Power Cuts During Cyclones

  • Logical Aspects of Power Cuts: The rationale behind stopping electricity supply for safety during cyclones seems logical. Still, the unintended consequences, such as hazards in dark homes and neighborhoods, need careful consideration.
  • Demographic Concerns: The vulnerable demographics, especially the elderly living alone, face increased risks during widespread power disruptions, emphasizing the importance of evaluating decisions in a broader context.
  • Balancing Act in Decision-Making: Decision-makers face the challenge of balancing safety measures with the potential negative consequences of prolonged power cuts, requiring a nuanced and continuously evolving approach.

Enhancing Decision-Making Processes

  • Emotional and Psychological Challenges: Decision-making during crises is emotionally and psychologically challenging, with potential life-saving measures requiring careful consideration of the 'flip side' to avoid unintended complications.
  • Justification and Documentation: Those empowered to make decisions must justify and document their actions in real-time to enable effective reviews. Premature restoration or unjustifiable extension of power cuts both carry significant risks.
  • Shared Responsibility and Accountability: In a democratic system, decision-makers should be accountable, avoiding unfettered power. A hierarchy-based approach, periodic reviews, and involvement of multiple individuals can enhance decision-making processes and accountability.
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