Humanity-Hub “The Location Based Shelter Guidance and Rescue System for Disaster Situations in Sri-Lanka”

Abstract:

In every year, thousands of people either lose their lives or are fatally affected due to various disasters. Disasters like floods, tsunamies, tropical cyclones, landslides, rockslides, transport accidents,  fires,  rarely  earthquakes  can  be identified  as  more  acquainted  disasters  when considering the Sri Lankan context. Very  often  natural  disasters cannot  be  avoided.  However,  we  can  manage  those  situations effectively.  Ministry  of  Disaster  management fulfills the  need  for  a  disaster  management authority  in  Sri  Lanka.  Under  this  Ministry,  Disaster  Management  Center holds  the  main contribution to the disaster management process in the whole country. When  looking  at  current disaster  management  status  in  Sri  Lanka,  Preparedness  phase (activities prior to a disaster) and Response phase (activities during a disaster) activities are still  developing  and  not  in  required  level.  Therefore,  early  warning systems have  been identified  as  an  urgent  requirement.  Literature  also  highlights  the  need  for  an  effective emergency communications system within a disastrous situation.