(P1-7) Disasters and Implications for Changes in Vulnerability: A Case Study of Vavaniya Village Affected by the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake

Abstract

Disasters tend to exacerbate and bring to surface the socio-economic, political, environmental vulnerabilities of the different sections of a community and thus, are seen as opportunities for reduction of vulnerability. In a post-disaster recovery program, organizations often come together in an effort to create safe conditions, reduce pressures and address root causes. These programs, at times, may further strengthen the existing vulnerabilities, thereby making some groups of the community better off than the others. Vulnerability is a dynamic process and no individual is completely vulnerable or resilient. Root causes, dynamic pressures and unsafe conditions also change with time and depends on the context of analysis. This study examines changes in vulnerability after intervention by organizations using a case study of one of the villages affected by the 2001 Gujarat Earthquake. The case study of the village gives an insight into the intra-societal vulnerabilities and how these vulnerabilities change with time. The study is qualitative in nature and has used purposive sampling technique to collect data. Data analysis was done using inductive coding methods. The study is of practical significance for the local authorities to understand peoples' perception of their vulnerabilities and ways to decrease them. It also adds to the body of knowledge by understanding vulnerability and resilience as social processes and offer lessons for future recovery processes.