The geo-genetic status of earthquake-related hazards and the role of human and policy dimensions in impact mitigation

ABSTRACT

Earthquakes occur in and around active lithospheric-plate margins that are located both in diverging and converging plate-settings. New fault rupture or old active fault reactivation can cause ground shaking, land deformation, land subsidence, landslides, and mass avalanches. The relevant locations of major risk centres around the world are well known. However, the parameters such as trend, pattern, frequency and magnitude are highly variable and very difficult to determine and predict. One result is that many fundamental and universal scientific achievements for mitigating earthquake hazard have often failed in protecting and safe-guarding human life and property. Although naturally occurring events cannot be prevented nevertheless loss of life and property damage could be minimized if an integrated effort and using the wisdom of the relevant professionals are practiced. A paradigm shift of the culture from post-disaster relief and rehabilitation to pre-disaster preparation and practice would reduce the level of destruction from an impending earthquake. Requisite pre-disaster physical planning and appropriate building measures, and pre- and post-disaster risk management should give special attention to public awareness programmes for loss mitigation. However, the fundamental requirement for such achievement is dedicated approach and commitment from the planner, practitioners and end-users of risk mitigation actions.