Test: Natural Hazards & Disasters - 2 - UPSC MCQ

Risk assessment and vulnerability mapping involve using tools such as Geographic Information System (GIS) based databases to identify potential hazards, assess their severity, and determine the vulnerability of populations and infrastructure in disaster-prone areas. This information is critical for developing effective disaster management plans and mitigation measures.

One of the key steps to prevent and mitigate disasters in urban areas is to ensure that natural drainage systems are not obstructed. This helps to prevent flooding and other water-related disasters. State Governments/UTs should focus on improving urban drainage systems and maintaining the natural flow of water in urban areas.

During a disaster, the media plays a crucial role in providing accurate and timely information to the public. This helps to prevent the spread of rumors, reduce panic, and ensure that people are aware of the necessary steps to take to protect themselves and their families.

Geographic Information System (GIS), Radiofrequency identification (RFID), and communication technologies such as radio, television, and SMS are all crucial tools for creating early warning systems for disasters. These technologies help to gather and disseminate information quickly and effectively, allowing people to prepare and respond to potential disasters.

The Disaster Management Act, 2005 is the primary legal framework governing disaster management in India. The act provides for the establishment of disaster management authorities at the national, state, and district levels and outlines their responsibilities for planning, coordinating, and implementing disaster management activities.

Science and technology play a crucial role in disaster mitigation and prevention by developing early warning systems, enhancing search and rescue operations, and improving information dissemination during disasters. These advancements help to reduce the impact of disasters and save lives.

One of the key areas to address for proper planning and mitigation measures in risk-prone areas is ensuring the safety and security of critical infrastructure, such as roads, dams, bridges, power stations, and railway lines. Regular safety checks and adherence to global safety standards are necessary to minimize the impact of hazards on these vital structures.

Environmentally sustainable development requires a balance between environmental considerations and developmental efforts. This approach helps to ensure that development activities do not exacerbate the risk of disasters and that environmental resources are preserved for future generations.

Climate change adaptation strategies are crucial for disaster risk reduction, as they address the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and cyclones. These strategies help communities prepare for and respond to the challenges posed by climate change, thereby reducing the impact of disasters.

Before a disaster, the media plays a vital role in bringing attention to potential hazards, preparing communities for potential disasters, and making them aware of the necessary precautions to take. This information helps to reduce the impact of disasters and save lives.

After a disaster, the media plays a crucial role in investigating the causes of the disaster, generating expert opinions through debates and discussions, and informing the public about post-disaster rehabilitation measures. This information helps to improve disaster preparedness and response in the future.

Stakeholders play a crucial role in disaster management by contributing to the planning and execution of disaster management strategies. This involvement ensures that the needs of affected communities are addressed and that resources are effectively allocated for disaster response and recovery efforts.

Understanding crowd behavior is essential for effective disaster management, particularly in situations involving large numbers of people, such as mass gatherings and evacuations. Factors such as capacity planning, crowd control, and stakeholder approach all contribute to understanding and managing crowd behavior during disasters.

Accurate and timely information is critical for effective disaster management. Proper information management and dissemination ensure that stakeholders, including affected communities, relief organizations, and government agencies, have the necessary information to make informed decisions and respond effectively to disasters.

The primary role of medical emergency services in disaster management is to provide medical care and support to affected communities. This includes emergency medical treatment, triage, and transportation of injured individuals, as well as the provision of essential medical supplies and resources.