CBSE Class 8 Disaster Management Manmade Disaster

Manmade Disasters - An Overview

We have so far discussed possible disasters that can result from natural hazards. We have also seen how human actions in some cases aggravate the disastrous effects of natural hazards. For instance, improper constructions can increase vulnerabilities to earthquakes in seismic zones where earthquakes are more probable. In drought prone areas, wastage of water, or environmental degradation by human actions can magnify drought conditions.

But disasters can also be manmade, as mentioned in the introduction to this book. For instance, rail, road or air accidents are manmade disasters. The threat of serious disaster looms large from the possible use of weapons such as nuclear bombs or the atom bomb that was dropped over Japan during World War II. These weapons are commonly called Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), which lead to the breakdown and collapse of social, political and economic systems that sustain communities. Inevitably agriculture and food production are major casualties.

Man-made disasters cost the most in terms of human suffering, loss of life and longterm damage to a country’s economy and productive capacity.Let us now look at the various types of manmade disasters briefly:

WMD

WMD can be broadly classified into three categories – as those that facilitate nuclear, biological and chemical warfare.

With the advancement of scientific research in the world, several countries have acquired the technology to produce Nuclear Arms, which are more destructive and harmful than the atom bomb used more than half a century ago. There is also a risk of accidental exposure to harmful radiation from the several nuclear reactors that are used for generation of power. Theft of nuclear material can enable the creation of crude bombs commonly known as ‘dirty bombs’ which can be used by antisocial elements or terrorists. How can we protect ourselves from nuclear radiation and attacks?  Don’t panic in the event of a nuclear attack or accident. Common indicators of radioactivity are nausea, dizziness, vomiting and disorientation, with no odour but a wave of heat. A nuclear explosion is followed by a ‘blast’ like the mushroom cloud in the picture above, which can cause instant blindness if viewed.  Close all doors and windows, and stay indoors till further communication from the Government. Radioactivity does not penetrate solid structures, though fire may cause damage to buildings.

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