1.2.4 Responses to Tectonic Hazards - Case Study

1) Earthquake in Nepal, a lower-income country:

2) Earthquake in New Zealand, a HIC country:

Primary Effects

• 8841 died, mostly from collapsed buildings
• 16800 injured
• 1 million made homeless
• 7000 schools, 26 hospitals and Dharahara Tower (UNESCO site) destroyed
• 181 died, mostly from 1 collapsed TV building
• 2000 injured
• 80% of the city without power
• 50% of all buildings severely damaged

Secondary Effects

• Triggered an avalanche on Mount Everest which swept through the base camp.
• Loss of income from a reduction in tourist numbers due to damage to historical buildings, hotels, and transport.
• Rice seed stores wiped out, 2/3 of the population depend on this.
• Loss of income from a reduction in tourist numbers as Christchurch could no longer host rugby world cup matches.
• Schools were closed for 2 weeks.
• 1/3 of residents faced financial difficulties for up to 3 months after the event.

Immediate Responses

• International help requested in the form of rescue teams.
• Temporary shelters set up and food, water, and medical supplies were distributed to the worst affected areas.
• Facebook launched a safety feature, so people could indicate that they were safe in difficult to reach terrain.
• Several companies didn't charge for phone calls.
• The Australian Government donated NZ$6.7 million to the Red Cross appeal.
• 27000 chemical toilets were flown into the area as sanitation and sewerage works were damaged.
• 7 million in international aid was provided.
• The New Zealand Defence Forces provided equipment, transport, evacuation, food, and water aid to 1000 homeless people as a result of the earthquake.

Long Term Responses

• 23 areas identified for rebuilding in post-disaster assessment.
• Mount Everest reopened to tourists in August after some trails were rerouted; climbing permits were also extended until 2017.
• UN trained farmers to expand crop production and repair irrigation channels that were damaged by landslides.
• Insurance companies paid $898 million in claims.
• Water & Sewage was restored by August 2011 (i.e., 6 months); 80% of roads were repaired within 6 months.
• Canterbury Temporary Accommodation was provided by the New Zealand Government for the 10,000 made homeless.