SOCIO-ECONOMIC VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT OF A DISASTER PRONE TOURIST TOWNSHIP OF INDIAN HIMALAYAN REGION

Indian Himalayan Region is experiencing a steep rise in tourism and at the same time is exposed to increasing risk for disasters due to several physical, environmental and socio-economic conditions. The purpose of this study is to investigate the socio-economic vulnerability of a popular tourist township - Nainital and suggest measures to increase community resilience. Extensive literature survey is conducted and 21 indicators of socio-economic vulnerability are identified which are relevant to the study area. Primary survey conducted in 300 households for obtaining data for these indicators. Weighted index method is used by applying appropriate weights to the categories of these indicators to find cumulative vulnerability values which are calculated for 13 wards of Nainital. It was observed that that the areas on the eastern side of Naini lake are socio-economically less vulnerable, while those on the western side are more vulnerable. The overall socio-economic vulnerability for Nainital was found to be moderate. The environment vulnerability and physical vulnerability of built environment for Nainital township are not studied in this paper. The socio-economic vulnerability for Nainital, give an objective picture for developing practical strategies for vulnerability reduction. The recommendations suggested for reducing the socio-economic vulnerability of Nainital township would result in a more resilient community. The index presented in this paper could be a valuable tool in facilitating the development of a safer environment for populations living in disaster prone hilly tourist townships of India.