A proto-type space-based disaster management system (DMS) has been organized with comprehensive database design, space-based near real-time monitoring/mapping tools, modelling framework, networking solutions and multi-agency interfaces. With the appropriate synthesis of these core elements, a system-definition of the frame-work of a DMS has been arrived at, in terms of developing a methodology towards damage assessment due to 1998 Brahmaputra floods. The limited validation experiments carried out in consultation with local level functionaries reveal that the experimental results on damage to agricultural crops due to floods are in conformity with field conditions. Still, there is a gap existing between the estimates arrived at and the estimates derived from conventional methods. It is herein that a concerted effort towards achieving absolute accuracy is called for. The conceived DMS ultimately aims at providing a holistic design and development of an information system, mainly to support the information needs forpreparedness, prediction, damage assessment, rehabilitation and research; networking, mainly to be able to speedily provide access to the information system at any point of time from any place and decision, making, to support speedy and efficient decisions being taken, actions being implemented along with feedback mechanisms.
Venkatachary, K.V. et al. (2001): Defining a Space-Based Disaster Management System for Floods: A Case Study for Damage Assessment due to 1998 Brahmaputra Floods. Current Science, Vol. 80, No. 3., 369-377.
