7. Role of Information Technology in Management of Natural Disasters in India

It may be observed that advancement in Information Technology in the form of Internet, GIS, Remote Sensing, satellite communication, etc. can help a great deal in planning and implementation of hazards reduction measures. GIS can improve the quality and power of analysis of natural hazards assessments, guide development activities and assist planners in the selection of mitigation measures and in the implementation of emergency preparedness and response action. Remote Sensing, on the other hand, as a tool can very effectively contribute towards identification of hazardous areas, monitor the planet for its changes on a real time basis and give early warning to many impending disasters. Communication satellites have become vital for providing emergency communication and timely relief measures. Integration of space technology inputs into natural disaster monitoring and mitigation mechanisms is critical for hazard reduction. It is absolutely necessary to create awareness amongst the public as well as decision-makers for allocating resources for appropriate investments in information technology. In this paper an attempt has been made to highlight the role of information technology in management of natural disasters in India.