Dignity for those affected by Disasters. Focus on Prevention and Mitigation of Disasters.
As disasters are becoming the number one cause for migration and environmental destruction that are various steps or actions which can be taken to better manage and deal with it.
With the destructive disaster season upon us it’s always important to remember that such disasters not only cause the loss of innocent lives usually in the rural areas but it also erases cultures and heritage, livelihoods, and is among the major causes of migration across the country. However, there are a few things which I believe would help in prevention and mitigation of such disasters.
Short Term or Long-Term Evacuation or Relocation - The people who live in low lying areas, mountainous areas either at the top or at the bottom, who are near the banks of a river and so on must be evacuated or ideally relocated as their area will always be prone to disasters.
Skill development of Affected Persons - Those regularly affected by disasters can be trained in various skills as a means to diversify their sources of livelihood and income, in case their primary and traditional occupation is destroyed their call fall back on these skills and if they have to move to an urban area they will be able to earn a better and more dignified income for their families.
Contingency Fund or Emergency Fund - As these disasters are expected to occur especially in certain states, governments and especially ngos must have a fund which can be utilised immediately for the dispersal of relief materials for the affected persons. There should be a strong network of volunteers on the ground to help identify the areas and to distribute the material to all the affected families.
Pollution Control/Management in Urban areas - In the urban areas the use of vehicles, construction activity, industrial activity, burning of waste and so on has a major impact on the climate. Hence all stakeholders must try to reduce all the factors causing such pollution to reduce the intensity of the disasters.
Use of Local Resources and Methods - Depending on the type of area the locals may build an embankment, dig deep pits for the rainwater to go through and drain away and so on. These methods would help the locals depending on the intensity and severity of the disaster.
These are to preserve the lives of the people affected by the disasters as they are usually the ones who haven’t caused it. However, if possible, the root cause which is to maintain ecological balance is only possible once all stakeholders are involved
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