Parliamentary panel flags critical gaps in Kerala’s disaster management framework
Despite Kerala’s vulnerability to multiple hazards, including floods, landslides, coastal erosion, lightning and cyclonic events, Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs finds that gaps persist in last-mile dissemination of early warnings in landslide-prone and remote areas
A parliamentary committee has highlighted significant shortcomings in Kerala's disaster management framework, despite the State's vulnerability to a range of hazards. The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs reported gaps in the dissemination of early warnings to remote and landslide-prone areas, with technological limitations persisting in prediction, early-warning accuracy, and real-time flood modelling.
The report emphasized the exacerbating effects of high population density, environmental degradation, and urban encroachment in ecologically sensitive regions. Local enforcement of building regulations, land-use planning, and coastal management also proved insufficient at the grassroots level. The committee urged the promotion of public awareness on multi-hazard warning systems to bolster disaster preparedness.
Notably, Kerala's disaster management structure, which involves preparation at the State, district, and local levels, received commendation. The State’s advanced early-warning and monitoring systems, including the KaWaCHaM system, were also highlighted. Despite these strengths, the report stressed the need for enhanced risk-informed development, technological advancements in forecasting, last-mile connectivity, and public awareness, alongside addressing flawed land-use and construction practices.
Kerala's State Disaster Management Authority member secretary acknowledged the need for addressing land use and construction issues, while attributing forecast-related challenges to the Union government.
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