Abstract

Disasters- both natural and man-made, have a profound impact on countries worldwide. However, the effects are not uniform, as they disproportionately affect vulnerable regions and communities. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of India’s disaster landscape scrutinizing the frequency of catastrophes and their impact on the economic and social development of the country highlighting disaster-prone regions. By using regression and correlation tools we examine the frequency and impact of the disasters on GDP, inequality, Poverty, Unemployment, and Climate change from the lens of annual temperature and rainfall to gain insights into disaster vulnerability in India. Additionally, we analyze the flash flood scenario in India over six decades by focusing on the Kerala floods-2018 Vs. Uttarakhand Floods 2013 and the recent Joshimath Disaster. Through an in-depth exploration of India’s disaster vulnerability, the study contributes to a broader discourse on building resilience through the effective implementation of sustainable development. Thus, we emphasize, the imperative to align government efforts, with sustainable development goals acknowledging the intersectionality of disasters with inequality, poverty, and climate change.

Keywords: Disaster, Resilience, Climate Change, Vulnerability, SDGs, Inequality