Q. What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).

Model Answer:

Disaster resilience

Disaster resilience is the capacity of communities, infrastructure, and systems to absorb, adapt to, and rapidly recover from the impacts of hazards. It encompasses both physical and social dimensions, focusing on reducing vulnerability and enhancing coping mechanisms.

Determination of disaster resilience involves:

• Quantitative assessments: Using indicators like the Disaster Resilience Index (DRI) or the Baseline Resilience Indicators for Communities (BRIC).
• Qualitative evaluations: Analyzing community cohesion, local knowledge, and adaptive strategies.
• Risk mapping: Identifying hazard-prone areas and assessing exposure levels.
• Capacity analysis: Evaluating resources, skills, and institutional capabilities for disaster management.

A comprehensive resilience framework typically includes:

1. Risk identification and assessment: Utilizing multi-hazard risk assessments and vulnerability analyses.

2. Risk reduction: Implementing structural and non-structural measures to mitigate potential impacts.

3. Preparedness: Developing early warning systems, evacuation plans, and community-based disaster preparedness programs.

4. Financial protection: Establishing risk transfer mechanisms like insurance and contingency funds.

5. Resilient reconstruction: Incorporating ‘build back better’ principles in post-disaster recovery.

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) sets seven global targets:

1. Substantially reduce global disaster mortality by 2030.

2. Significantly decrease the number of affected people globally by 2030.

3. Reduce direct disaster economic loss in relation to global GDP by 2030.

4. Substantially reduce disaster damage to critical infrastructure and disruption of basic services.

5. Increase the number of countries with national and local disaster risk reduction strategies by 2020.

6. Enhance international cooperation to developing countries through adequate and sustainable support.

7. Substantially increase the availability of and access to multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information and assessments by 2030.

Conclusion: Disaster resilience is crucial for sustainable development, requiring integrated efforts across sectors and scales to build safer, adaptable communities worldwide.