Earthquake Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies in Pakistan

Abstract

The site of Pakistan in a region which is seismically active lends urgency to earthquake disaster risks. Seismic susceptibility implied by historical earthquake tremors continues to emphasize needs for sound disaster risk management approaches. This study seeks to critically analyze the current earthquake risk picture in Pakistan, a detailed appraisal of existing Disaster Management mechanisms and systems practice as well as implementation of policies. Using global standards, guides and practices as well as case studies, the study relative to best practice in earthquake risk reduction will be identified with a focus on application potential within Pakistan. Additionally, seismic zoning, vulnerability assessment and exposure analysis will be studied in the research to perform a comprehensive risk assessment of earthquake for the country. Through analyzing the existing challenges and gaps in the system, this paper is going to propose specialized risk reduction strategies for earthquake disaster that will integrate early warning systems implementation into building code implementing communities. The aim is as such to provide workable recommendations for the policymakers and stakeholders in order to lay down a resilient prepared response strategy towards an earthquake disaster risk reduction plan in Pakistan.