International Journal of Social Science Research (IJSSR)

The Role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Disaster Management in India

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have an important role in upgrading disaster management strategies, especially in disaster prone countries such as India. This research discusses the applications of GIS in disaster management in India concentrating on contributions that GIS can provide at the disaster preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation level. GIS takes advantage of spatial data to reflect the dynamic and uncertain characteristics of the hazard so as to make accurate hazard mapping, real time monitoring and reasonable resource allocation possible, and efficiently reducing the impacts of disasters. Although, a potential, its adoption faces several problems in India, including poor infrastructure, shortage of trained personnel, lack of sharing of data on uniform patterns, and low public awareness. These challenges are discussed in this study and recommendations formulated to promote efficient integration of GIS in disaster management in India. Strengthening our infrastructure; improving capacity building, agency collaboration; leveraging technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and drones. This research highlights the necessity of policy reforms and institutional support, necessary to achieve maximum effectiveness of GIS in disaster management, and in turn may help in building a more resilient and disaster prepared India.