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.

1 Risk Assessment and Mapping:

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.

2 Strategic Project Location

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.

3 Remember Design Flexibility

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.

4 Think Space Considerations

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:

• Area to cook.
• Space to sleep/rest.
• Functional Restrooms.
• Zone for pets.
• Multipurpose Halls for meetings, training, or leisure).
• Storage for food, hygiene products, first aid, and others.

Exterior Considerations:

• Accessible to ground/air ambulances.
• Verify the building complies with local structural code for wind and seismic hazards.
• Access ramps for people with disabilities.
• Operable Windows for ventilation and daylight.

5 Ensure Provisions for Equipment

Make sure the following supplies are considered to be accommodated in the space:

• Drinkwater System
• Refrigerator
• Fuel for power back

First aid:

• Life support equipment
• First-aid kit
• Defibrillator

Communication:

• Radio AM/FM
• Landline phone

6 Invest Time in Structural Design

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.

7 Adopt Net-Zero Sustainable Principles:

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:

• To achieve better EPI than base case through active and passive design strategies.
• Strategies include such things as optimized orientation, envelope, shading, natural ventilation, daylight, etc. to optimize energy consumption.
• Onsite renewable energy using solar PV and vertical axis wind turbines.

Net Zero Water:

• Rainwater harvesting to reduce dependency on municipal water supply.
• Modular rainwater filtration systems.
• Use of low-flow rate fixtures.
• Provision of STP (if applicable).

8 Create Emergency Plans

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.

9 Conduct Annual Emergency Drills

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.

10 Empower Local Community

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