Social vulnerability and spatial adaptation: A case study of community responses to natural disasters in Silchar, Assam State, India
Abstract
Relevance. The present study aims to assess the awareness and preparedness of the community of Silchar, Assam, for disasters using household survey. Aim. Assessing local community adaptation to natural disasters is essential for building resilient communities and reducing the impacts of disasters. Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction (CBDRR) is essential for empowering vulnerable communities, such as those in As- sam, India, to effectively address natural disasters. Given Assamʼs susceptibility to floods, earthquakes, and landslides, it is imperative to implement CBDRR programs that foster a culture of preparedness. Through col- laborative learning of disaster prevention, mitigation, and response strategies, communities can better handle emergencies, leading to long-term resilience and improved disaster response for future generations. Methods. This helps in creating effective plans to get ready for them. Surveys show where people need more information and who might be more at risk. An initial survey was conducted in high-risk areas of Assam, India, identified us- ing a multi-hazard map. The 50-question survey was designed to evaluate disaster awareness and preparedness of the Silchar City. It included multiple-choice questions on general knowledge, emergency response, supplies, communication plans, and preventative measures. Results. This study shows that it is important to make people more aware of disasters and better prepared. It found some things people do nоt know and suggests focusing on those areas to help the community handle disasters better. The findings highlight the importance of public awareness campaigns, early warning systems, and education programs to address these challenges in Cachar District of Assam State. The results of this study will help us see where people need to be better prepared for disasters. This information will be useful to identify areas to conduct relevant tailor-made training programs so people can get ready and handle disasters better.
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