Hazard-risk and vulnerability assessment for the National Zoological Park at New Delhi, India

Abstract

Hazard risk and disaster implications for human habitat have significant concern but, however, the vulnerability of animal habitat remained a low priority. Zoological parks where animals are under captivity present complexity or probable impacts in case of disasters. This study has considered the potential hazards and major incidents over past 20 years for risk and vulnerability assessment in order to delineate disaster risk reduction strategies for National Zoological Park. On-field observations were also undertaken, also the analysis of potential hazards implying the Scaling method. Evaluation and interpretation of data was done in graphs, charts and summarized tables. Most fatal disasters adversely affected the zoo environment were the cases of snake bite (44%) and disease outbreaks (32%). Under observational period, potential hazards such as presence of dry logs, branches and bushes prone to fire, damaged fencing, house shelters and roof of kraal, low level of railing in visitor viewing area and free ranging species were recorded. Hazard implications with high possibility future occurrence and with worst impact on zoo environment estimated were flood and sewage backflow (16%), fire incidents (10.7%), law and order problem (10.7%), zoonotic diseases and epidemics (10.7%), followed by other factors. Biosecurity measures taken by zoo administration were reviewed and recommendations have been drawn based on scientific observations and assessment of gaps with respect to security, safety and other risk management measures before, during and after a disaster.