Preparedness for a forgotten disaster: A case study Coimbatore, India

Abstract

Earthquake preparedness is known to effectively reduce the distressful effects of earthquakes, as demonstrated in experiences worldwide. This research aims to use a region-specific, valid, and reliable survey-based tool to assess individual and community earthquake preparedness levels in a densely populated city region with a forgotten earthquake history. The study focuses on evaluating the earthquake preparedness levels of a population in the Indian peninsular shield region that has not experienced an earthquake or received any preparatory program in their life time; but the region has an earthquake history. Coimbatore city was chosen for the same reason, and two survey-based tools were developed - the Individual Earthquake Readiness Index (IERI) and the Community Earthquake Readiness Index (CERI) - using a comprehensive literature analysis, questionnaire creation via focused group discussion followed by expert panel validation, and pilot studies. This study ensured the validity and reliability of the tools through content validity, construct validity, internal consistency test, Spearman's test-retest reliability test, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The final IERI is a 27-item tool, and the final CERI is a 20-item tool. This study broadens the scope of risk assessment, facilitating a methodical estimation of Earthquake Readiness Index as one of the pivotal social vulnerability determinant. The study revealed a strong sense of community spirit in Coimbatore, but residents showed a lack of individual preparedness and were hesitant to take leadership roles. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to bridge the gaps in earthquake preparedness, fostering a culture of proactive engagement and individual responsibility.