Perry (2007) writes the article Natural disaster management planning: A study of logistics manager responding to the tsunami with the aim of analysing the tsunami disaster that occurred in 2004, as well as providing comprehensive overview of the things that ought to have occurred. As such, the article carries out a hindsight-analysis case regarding the placement of a natural disaster response activity with respect to disaster planning and management.
The frequency of earthquakes, mudslides, floods, hurricanes and tsunamis is collectively increasing. According to recent trends, more than 2 billion people have suffered injuries while others died from natural disasters. Numerous cases of loss of life due to natural disasters are attributable to social marginalization, rapid urbanization, as well as environmental degradation. On the other hand, communities that are poor suffer more from natural disasters. This is based on the fact that such groups of people live in vulnerable areas because of their economic, cultural, political and social factors. As evident in the case of the 2004 tsunami, the worst hit group was the poor.
Following the occurrence of the tsunami in 2004, most infrastructures were destroyed making it difficult for the concerned organizations and governments to carry out relief activity. In addition, such activity experienced logistical and organizational challenges specifically during the post-tsunami days.
There are a number of disaster response requirements that are necessary for efficient disaster planning and management, which include preparedness activity in areas that are vulnerable, involving people from the local area, ensuring that there is effective coordination in the assessment of needs with the emphasis on the inclusiveness of the locals and cultural sensitivity. In addition, the participating parties ought to be collaborative in terms of sharing information, as well as engaging logisticians early.
A review of the traditional idea of disaster preparedness indicates that there is still a lot that needs to be done to make such preparedness for natural disaster effective. Empirical evidence indicated that there were several shortfalls in the 2004 tsunami response. For this reason, an efficient disaster planning model should take into consideration a rigorous, well-informed, as well as a forward-thinking approach that is socially responsible. Disaster management planning is complex in nature and focuses entirely on the welfare of the community in the long run. The implication is that disaster management planning is not a sole responsibility of the outsiders.
Based on the discussion above, it is evident that there is a need for a broader approach to the aspect of disaster preparedness and management. As such, in preparation for any possible tsunami in the future, it is important to have a preparedness activity that focuses on addressing issues broadly as opposed to the provision of immediate response whenever a disaster occurs. Therefore, an efficient preparedness activity would put a lot of emphasis on the economic and vulnerability aspects of all people living in disaster-prone areas. Addressing issues such as where the affected people run for help and what their future is, would help in ensuring that the preparedness activity is efficient. Collaboration among parties in any relief operation or in the planning and management of any disaster is important. In spite of this, more research is needed to answer the following questions:
- What is the role of international and local governance in addressing socioeconomic problems and widespread poverty?
- Where does responsibility in terms of coordination and leadership lie upon the occurrence of a tsunami in the future?
Reference
Perry, M. (2007). Natural disaster management planning. International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, 37(5), 409-433.