A survey on evacuation planning and its challenges for potential earthquake in Tehran
International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment
ISSN: 1759-5908
Article publication date: 4 March 2014
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to introduce the activities carried out for preparing evacuation plans in Tehran and the challenges observed for involving local communities in earthquake risk mitigation.
Design/methodology/approach
In order to prepare the evacuation plans, at first the earthquake risk at different scenarios was determined and the potential damages and casualties at neighborhood levels were estimated accordingly. Then, by considering geological and man-made hazards as well as socio-economic parameters, the potential evacuation places were investigated to be equipped with necessary materials for emergency conditions. In addition, some drills were organized at each neighborhood, and the residents were trained about evacuation and other necessary activities at time of crisis.
Findings
The methodology developed in this research provides practical means for promoting public participation and earthquake risk mitigation. Furthermore, the paper proposes some measures for involving local communities in risk reduction activities.
Research limitations/implications
Considering the complexities of socio-economic conditions in Tehran, the plan was implemented at two different neighborhoods in 2008. Therefore, similar researches should be conducted in other places to make generalized evacuation plans.
Originality/value
This paper introduces new methods for promoting preparedness and discusses the impacts of socio-economic conditions on developing risk mitigation plans.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The technical and financial support of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Tehran Disaster Mitigation and Management Organization (TDMMO) and International Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Seismology (IIEES) for implementing this project is greatly acknowledged.
Citation
Amini Hosseini, K., Hosseini, M., Hosseinioon, S., O. Izadkhah, Y., Shaw , T. and Takahashi, R. (2014), "A survey on evacuation planning and its challenges for potential earthquake in Tehran", International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 38-52. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJDRBE-09-2011-0033
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited