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26th December 2024 (13 Topics)

Nagapattinam’s journey of resilience, lessons for the future

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Context

The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which devastated Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, catalyzed major reforms in disaster management in India. Two decades later, while significant progress has been made, evolving risks continue to demand enhanced preparedness and resilience strategies.

Progress in Disaster Management

  • Institutional Reforms Post-Tsunami: The 2004 tsunami prompted the Disaster Management Act of 2005, establishing the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and empowering local authorities to implement tailored disaster plans.
  • Technological Advancements: India developed the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) in 2007, using GIS, AI-driven risk assessments, and mobile apps to improve real-time monitoring and preparedness for natural disasters.
  • Focus on Long-Term Resilience: Nagapattinam's recovery involved building multi-hazard-resistant homes and critical infrastructure, alongside integrating disaster risk insurance for homes, marking a shift toward long-term disaster resilience.

Lessons from Nagapattinam and Global Comparisons

  • Community Empowerment in Recovery: Over 400 NGOs were crucial in Nagapattinam’s recovery, involving local communities in medical aid, sanitation, and livelihood restoration, which enhanced the efficiency of disaster response.
  • Global Comparisons: Global examples like Chile’s efficient recovery and Haiti’s slow recovery highlight the importance of robust disaster management systems, insurance, and preemptive measures in reducing post-disaster losses.
  • Addressing Vulnerabilities: Despite improvements, vulnerable coastal and urban populations remain at risk. Integrating disaster risk reduction into development plans and continuous community education is essential for building resilience.

Practice Question

Q. Analyze the lessons learned from the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami in shaping India’s disaster management framework. How do India’s strategies compare with global practices in disaster preparedness and recovery?

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