Why is the prevention of landslides important? What we often hear after each landslide event is that “cascades of mud and water swept through tea estates and villages in hilly areas of the district.” This example is from one of the worst landslides Kerala has witnessed ever (Wayanad). At the very least, those who have survived the landslides deserve a resilient and functional shelter that contributes to the prevention of landslides.
Community Resilient Shelter serves as an alternate home for disaster-affected people during emergencies. This shelter acts as a prevention of landslides for a short time. Instead of merely reacting to it, the authorities and community leaders should take the necessary measures to establish shelters in different locations. These shelters can function as other community services like education and income-generating social functions during normal periods.
While we cannot always stop natural events from occurring, a comprehensive approach can minimize the effects. Creating community shelters requires step-by-step strategies. These strategic steps can contribute to the prevention of landslides.
It is one of the crucial components of disaster preparedness, especially for landslides. Advanced technology tools, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), are crucial for creating risk maps. This process involves collecting data on past incidents as well as geological and environmental factors. The maps from this data highlight high-risk areas with varying contours and terrains. Based on the detailed study, it feeds forward to select potential locations for the proposal. This proactive approach not only ensures preparedness but also enhances overall community resilience.
A SWOT analysis of potential sites provides a better understanding of which site is most operationally efficient. The shelter location should have a lower landslide risk and be accessible during emergencies. The site should be located on stable ground, away from steep slopes and unstable terrain. Consider the road accessibility, and the shelter is reachable via well-maintained roads and not prone to flooding and other concerns. Selecting the right site with these factors allows the communities to respond quickly to landslide events.
Investment is a high risk for infrastructure if the payback is not efficient. It’s always advisable to design multi-functional spaces that can be used in different situations. The flexibility in design allows the users to transform the setting into another function. Therefore, build shelters that serve other functions like health clinics, schools, or local emporium centers. These functions should be well integrated into the community. An open floor plan approach will be a great choice of idea to integrate multiple functions.
Indoor spaces play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of landslides and other natural events, such as flooding and cyclones. The following indoor spaces are essential:
Exterior Considerations:
Make sure the following supplies are considered to be accommodated in the space:
First aid:
Communication:
Investing time in structural reinforcement is very key in ensuring the resilience of the shelter to landslides and other natural calamities. Factors like landslides’ force, debris flow, and others should be considered while designing structural members. The aim to stabilize the surrounding soil and prevent landslides requires a deep foundation and retaining walls. The reinforced concrete or steel frame will be pivotal for structural stability and durability. After construction, the regular maintenance of these structural members is essential to rectify the damages.
Self-sustaining is one of the ultimate aims of resilience and sustainability. Less dependency on the grid and domestic water supply can reduce overall energy and water consumption. To ensure self-sustainability, the building design requires net-zero energy and water strategies. The strategies include:
Net Zero Energy:
Net Zero Water:
It is a natural tendency of human beings to panic during emergency events. To control and orient the community in the right direction is very essential. Establish the excavation routes well and highlight assembly points. Display and provide necessary instructions and maps to the residents. The emergency path should be slippery and foster quick navigation. Include communication plans that use various channels, like mobile alerts and social media, to disseminate timely updates.
The emergency drill is an exercise that improves the readiness of the community. It enhances response skills and identifies potential issues. Educate them on different scenarios and simulate design drills that inform following evacuation procedures, shelter operations, and communication protocols. Encourage community feedback, and it allows you to customize strategies based on the location.
A culture of involvement is key to empowering the local community. Involve key players of the community in risk assessments and planning processes. Conduct workshops and training sessions in high-risk areas well in advance on landslide awareness, emergency procedures, wayfinding, and others. To provide immediate assistance and support, create a network of volunteers in emergency responsive roles. By actively empowering the locals, it may establish an effective network of support. It also strengthens preparedness, accelerates response, and improves recovery in the prevention of landslides.
Today, cities, towns, and villages face unpredictable and devastating natural disasters like landslides, flooding, and more. However, are we prepared for the prevention of landslides? The disaster in Wayanad, Kerala, in July 2024, is an evident example of a distressing landslide event.
Let the local body not react to the landslides,
Instead,
Let the community prepare for the prevention of landslides.
Content And Research Writing by: Ar. Baarat Krishna
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