Earthquake Disaster Safety and Preparedness A Pilot Project in Hyderabad City, India

Abstract

Earthquake problems in India need no introduction. Some of the great earthquakes of the world occurred in India and neighbourhood areas. During past two decades, India has witnessed 7 moderate earthquakes which caused large number of casualties and innumerable property loss. Most of these losses are due to poor quality of construction and generally low level of awareness of the earthquake hazard prevalent in the country. In this regard, there is a need for coordinated and sustained effort towards earthquake risk reduction in the country. This can be achieved through education and awareness building. In general, sensitization programmes are required to build awareness at all levels, however, it is most important at school level because they prepare the future generations from early age. It is necessary to prepare simple reading material so that children can understand the problems at an early age itself. In this paper, we are discussing our effort in organizing earthquake day in 50 schools. Initially 50 schools in Hyderabad city were selected and on an average around 100 school children ranging from 8th to 10 standard were sensitized in each school. Total duration of the programme was 18 months. On school earthquake day, planned activities are as follows: Session I Introduction to earthquakes through animated short videos Session II Explanation of awareness generating experimental models Session III Explanation of information posters related to disaster preparedness Session IV Explanation of preparation of earthquake safety kits Session V Earthquake quiz and puzzle games related to disasters The models and material used for demonstration was given to school for their future use. Overall the programme was successful and we received excellent feedback from schools.