Assessing Agricultural Vulnerability to Climate Change: A Study on Flood-Induced Loss and Damage in Rajapur, Bardiya, Nepal

More frequent and severe extreme climate events have caused both economic and non-economic losses to local communities in disaster-prone areas due to climate change. This study examines the economic loss and damage to agriculture caused by an unseasonal flood in October 2021 in Rajapur Municipality, located along the Karnali River. The lower Karnali basin is highly prone to flooding, and Rajapur, situated between two arms of the river, has a long history of such events. Using household surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs), and secondary literature, the study assessed flood-related losses among small, medium, and large farmers based on key indicators from the Building Information Platform Against Disaster (BIPAD), including agricultural land, paddy production, stored grains, livestock, and farm machinery. The October 2021 flood, which occurred just before harvest, caused significant economic losses. Small farmers incurred a loss of $21,709.77, medium farmers faced a loss of$50,225.24, and large farmers experienced a loss of $32,393.49, resulting in a total production loss of$104,328.10. Small and medium farmers suffered greater impacts on their livelihoods, income, and food security than large farmers. Coping mechanisms included purchasing rice, consuming wheat instead of rice, taking loans, working as labourers, abandoning education, and cultivating spring-season rice. While adaptation measures, such as early warning systems and embankments, have helped prevent human casualties, mitigating agricultural losses remains a challenge as floodwaters continue to devastate farmlands, underscoring the need for improved flood management strategies to safeguard agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods

Nature and Extent of Flood Risk Downstream of the Kubanni Dam, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Several communities reside downstream of Kubanni Dam, thereby making them vulnerable to flood. However, the levels of vulnerability, areas, households, and buildings at risk of flooding downstream of Kubanni Dam remain unknown.  This study employed Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to identify areas and buildings at risk in the event of a breach of the Kubanni Dam. Areas liable to flood were delineated using ArcGIS software. Findings from the study revealed that in the event of any flooding due to the breach of the Kubanni Dam, the most affected areas would be Tudun Jukun, with about 2,699 buildings (25%), Gyallesu with about 2,180 (20.2%), Tudun Wada with about 1,851 buildings (17.2%), Hanwa with 984 buildings (9.1%), parts of Sabon Gari with about 918 buildings (8.5%), Zango with about 845 buildings (7.8%) and the Government Reserved Area (GRA) with about 772 buildings representing 7.2% of the total numbers likely to the affected. The results further showed that the Tudun Jukun area, with a population of 38,622, is located in a flood-risk area, followed by Tudun Wada, with a population of 26,487, which is also at risk. It was also found that the PZ area, with 4,997 households and 1,851 houses at risk of flooding, has the highest average number of persons per Hectare (68902.02) at risk of loss in the event of flooding. This study has demonstrated the effectiveness of GIS techniques in flood risk and vulnerability analysis as well as its potential in guiding physical planning and flood disaster risk reduction

The Role of Spatial Analysis in Notifiable Disease Monitoring and Health Risk Management: A Case Study of Constantine

The study aims to enhance understanding of the distribution of notifiable diseases using maps created with ArcGIS in Constantine. Over six years, it focused on the prevalence rates of waterborne diseases and zoonoses (e.g., tuberculosis, meningitis, and COVID-19). A database was created for each municipality using official data, which was processed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel and integrated into a geographic information system (GIS). The maps revealed a high prevalence of diseases in the state\u27s centre, particularly in the municipalities of Constantine, El Khroub, Didouche, and Mourad. The analysis also highlighted a positive relationship between the increase in disease cases and population density, emphasising the critical role of urbanisation in disease spread. Furthermore, seasonal variations were observed in the distribution of certain diseases, indicating that environmental factors, such as temperature and rainfall, influence disease outbreaks. As a result of this study, the maps have demonstrated a fundamental role in monitoring diseases and their development, offering valuable insights for public health surveillance and policy formulation. By visualising trends and patterns, these maps can support decision-making processes to manage health risks better and allocate resources effectively in the region

Retrogressive or Misplaced Priorities? An Assessment of Public Expenditure for Food Security and Disaster Risk Reduction in Uganda

The article argues that a rights-based approach to public investment and expenditure in agriculture and disaster risk management is a viable pathway for Uganda to realise the right to adequate food and sustainable development in line with the government’s national and international human rights commitments. This study employed a qualitative research paradigm to examine both primary and secondary data on public investment and expenditure in food security and disaster risk reduction in Uganda. Fifty-six key informant interviews were conducted with purposively selected officials at national and Local Government levels. Data and insights obtained were analysed using thematic and rights-based budget analyses. There is minimal application of rights-based approach principles in the budgeting for food security or disaster risk reduction in Uganda. Public expenditure in the agriculture sector and disaster risk management is inadequate to meet the increasing disasters in the country or to effectively protect the right to adequate food of vulnerable communities in disaster-prone regions. As a State Party to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and a signatory to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Uganda is obligated to protect and fulfil the right to adequate food for vulnerable communities in the event of disasters. This will require increased public and private investment in the agriculture sector and strengthening the disaster risk financing mechanisms at both national and Local Government levels

Predictors of Disaster Response Self-Efficacy Among Adult Residents in Selected Highly-Dense Barangays in Tondo, Manila

The Philippines\u27 geographical location and high population density, along with the effects of climate change, make the country vulnerable to disasters like typhoons, fires, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Densely populated areas, such as Tondo, Manila, are especially at risk, necessitating stronger community disaster preparedness and response efforts. Thus, this study examined the predictors and level of disaster response self-efficacy (DRSE) among adult residents of highly dense barangays in Tondo, Manila. The study utilised a descriptive correlational research design. A total of 281 participants from three selected, highly dense barangays in Tondo, Manila, were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using an adapted and validated instrument that assessed disaster response self-efficacy and its associated predictors. The reliability of the instrument was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha, and the data were analysed using multiple linear regression in IBM SPSS Version 25. Significant predictors of disaster response self-efficacy included community support (B = 0.382, p < 0.000), past disaster experience (B = 0.196, p < 0.000), perceived susceptibility (B = 0.169, p = 0.006), and monthly income (B = -0.00000685, p = 0.005). No significant associations were observed for gender, education level, duration of residence, geographical perspective, or perceived severity of the condition. Overall, participants exhibited high disaster response self-efficacy. Community support, past disaster experiences, and perceived susceptibility all enhance disaster response self-efficacy in highly dense urban populations, while income constraints appear to be a limiting factor. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health strategies to strengthen community resilience and preparedness in vulnerable areas

Factors of Vulnerability and Resilience of Persons with Disabilities During Disasters: Challenges and Strategies for Inclusive Risk Reduction

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are among the most at-risk groups during disaster situations due to various physical, sensory, cognitive, and systemic challenges that hinder their ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises. Although international legal frameworks emphasise their inclusion, people with disabilities (PWDs) often struggle to access essential resources, emergency assistance, and social protections during such events. This study examines both the vulnerabilities and strengths of people with disabilities (PWDs) in disaster risk management, highlighting the critical need for inclusive policies, enhanced accessibility measures, and stronger community-based support systems. It reviews key international, European, and national legal instruments designed to protect the rights of people with disabilities (PWDs) in disaster contexts while identifying gaps in their implementation. Furthermore, the research examines the active role people with disabilities (PWDs) can play in disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery, advocating for their meaningful participation in decision-making processes. By embedding inclusive disaster risk reduction strategies, societies can enhance resilience, ensure equitable access to emergency services, and foster long-term social inclusion for people with disabilities (PWDs). The findings emphasise the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, adaptive infrastructure, and targeted policy initiatives to bridge the gap between legal mandates and practical realities in disaster management

Assessment of Climate-Induced Vulnerabilities and Poverty Alleviation Potential of Dry Fish Industry: An Ecological and Socio-economic Study in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh

Climate change disrupts the ecosystem and decimates nature-dependent populations. The dried fish business in Cox\u27s Bazar relies on raw fish. The community in Cox\u27s Bazar district largely depends on these industries, which have contributed to poverty alleviation and local economic growth. However, they also have mixed ecological impacts, including positive outcomes and challenges such as waste generation. This paper assesses livelihood vulnerability in the coastal areas of Cox’s Bazar and Kutubdia through the LVI, LVI-IPCC, and various statistical tests. Data collection involved a survey of 150 households at each site, two focus group discussions (FGDs) at each site, and one key informant interview (KII) in each area. The results indicate that Kutubdia Island is more vulnerable than Cox’s Bazar, with an LVI value of 0.437. Initiatives for eco-friendliness, such as the adoption of Smart Solar Sun-Dryers, are being implemented. At the same time, the waste from this industry, which constitutes 14% of the waste in Cox\u27s Bazar, is increasingly being reused for fish feed. These findings underscore the dual impact of this industry on the environment and its crucial role in the livelihoods of local communities. This will help policymakers formulate effective strategies for resource allocation, development planning, and policy formulation

Disaster Management Laws in India: Past, Present, and Future Directions

Disaster management in India has significantly evolved over the years in response to the increasing frequency and severity of natural and man-made disasters. This paper examines the historical evolution of India\u27s legal framework for disaster management, critically assessing its effectiveness and providing recommendations for future legal and policy reforms. The study utilises a qualitative historical analysis to examine key legal documents, statutes, and regulations, tracing the evolution from colonial-era, relief-based laws to the present, more comprehensive risk-reduction models. The findings highlight the transition from a reactive, relief-focused approach to a more proactive, comprehensive risk-reduction model that aligns more closely with international best practices. The paper identifies the challenges faced by current legal frameworks, particularly in integrating advanced technologies and involving local governance in disaster management. Moreover, it emphasises the incorporation of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) into disaster management laws to enhance preparedness, response, and long-term recovery efforts. By focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the study advocates for enhancing the effectiveness of disaster management strategies. The paper concludes with recommendations for future reforms to strengthen India\u27s legal infrastructure and integrate emerging technologies, thereby enhancing disaster resilience nationwide

Large-Area Emergency Lockdowns with Automated Driving Systems

Region-wide restrictions on personal vehicle travel have a long history in the United States, from riot curfews in the late 1960s to travel bans during snow events to the 2013 shelter-in-place “lockdown” during the search for the perpetrator of the Boston Marathon bombing. Because lockdowns require a tremendous amount of resources to enforce, they are often limited in duration or scope. The introduction of automated driving systems may enable governments to quickly and cost-effectively implement large-scale lockdowns by disrupting wireless communications, inserting road closures into digital maps, exploiting a vehicle’s programming to obey all traffic control devices, or coordinating with vehicle manufacturers. Future vehicles may lack conventional controls, rendering them undrivable by the public. As travel restrictions become easier to implement, governments may enforce them more frequently, over longer durations and wider areas. This article examines the practical, legal, and ethical implications of lockdowns in scenarios where most driving is highly automated and offers guidance on the development of lockdown policies

Domestic Hiking Tourism for Post-COVID Recovery and Transformation

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted global tourism, necessitating adaptive recovery strategies. This study explores the role of domestic hiking tourism in Ethiopia as a resilience mechanism for post-pandemic recovery and transformation. Using a qualitative case study approach, interviews were conducted with 16 hiking organisers in Addis Ababa to assess the factors contributing to the growth of hiking tourism, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and its potential as a catalyst for tourism recovery. Findings indicate that shifting travel preferences, increased health awareness, the influence of digital media, and emerging government initiatives have fueled the rise of hiking tourism. However, regulatory gaps, enforcement of health protocols, and political instability remain key challenges. Despite these obstacles, domestic hiking tourism has played a crucial role in revitalising the tourism industry, fostering community engagement, and promoting local economic development. This study highlights the importance of policy support, infrastructure investment, and regulatory frameworks in sustaining Ethiopia’s growing hiking tourism sector as a long-term recovery strategy