GIS mapping of disaster-prone spots in 14 dists to start soon

Nashik: The disaster-prone locations in 14 vulnerable districts in the state will soon be mapped using Global Information System (GIS) for better identification of such spots and quick response in case of any emergency.
The information, which will be uploaded on websites, will help send well-equipped emergency rescue and relief operations teams to the locations in case of an emergency and better coordination through a dedicated channel - the software to be developed soon.
The government has decided to strengthen the state and district-level disaster management authorities by carrying out Hazard Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (HVRA) of the areas in the respective districts in relation to possible man-made or natural disasters. The study will be uploaded on the websites of District Disaster Management Authority and State Disaster Management Authority.
The fourteen districts are Nashik, Ahmednagar, Amravati, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Solapur, Satara, Aurangabad, Latur, Gondia, Nagpur and Chandrapur districts. In Nashik district, the exercise is expected to begin in June.
"Be it a man-made or natural disaster, the incident leaves a long trail of life and property damage. It also at times takes toll on the development of the city, state or the country. In order to cut down the loss of property and life, it is always better to be informed not only about the ways and means to tackle the situation but also about the preventive measures. For this, information exchange is very important," a senior officer from the collectorate said.
"Uploading the information about hazardous (disaster-prone) sites on the website using the GIS will help take preventive measures and in preparedness. It is likely to cut down the damage to life and property. The same information will also be loaded in a software to be designed in the near future," he added.
Disaster management professionals to be appointed soon will have the task of not only evaluating the hazards, but also the task of carrying out mock drills for spreading awareness of the disaster preparedness, facilitate community training and such activities.