The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : UNDP for <I>in situ</I> development

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Apr 15, 2005

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

UNDP for in situ development

Special Correspondent

"The traditional layout must necessarily be integrated with disaster mitigation aspects, so that risks are not recreated."

CHENNAI: A joint micro-level assessment of the tsunami-devastated coastal areas of Tamil Nadu has recommended a "suggestive process for resettlement/in-situ redevelopment."

This study, undertaken by the State Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) analysed the scenario before and after the December 26, 2004 tsunami and formulated possible rehabilitation measures that can be undertaken.

"The underlying principle is that while planning a new settlement, an indepth study of the existing settlement pattern is necessary to recreate layouts and common spaces, which have evolved over time and are culturally sensitive. However, the traditional layout pattern must necessarily be integrated with disaster mitigation aspects, so that risks that existed are not recreated."

After an analysis of the existing situation and exploring the scope for mobilisation of local resources in the study region, the team has formulated strategies for housing reconstruction. "The process suggested is collaborative in nature with the active participation of all stakeholders."

The objective of the study was to undertake an indepth assessment of a few worst-affected villages through interaction with the stakeholders, mainly the community. It has also indicated areas where the UNDP and other UN agencies could play a role in the entire rehabilitation process.

The team conducted a study of three worst-affected villages in Nagapattinam district with different social profiles. They are Pazhaiyar, Medavamedu and Chinakotaimedu. The methodology was "multilayered."

All information about the community was collected, the damage assessed and the views of the community were ascertained through community surveys, focussed group discussions and household survey. The UNDP brought to bear on this exercise its experience in Orissa's "supercyclone" and Gujarat's 2001 earthquake.

Facilitating rapid recovery

"The focus of the UN is to facilitate rapid recovery of the affected population in a way that leads to sustainable reduction of disaster risks and expands the opportunities for development. It also ensures mainstreaming of issues pertaining to long-term vulnerability reduction, sustainability and environmental conservation,'' says a UNDP spokesperson.

According to a State Government official, "We are doing a thorough job in rehabilitation. Non-Governmental organisations, donors and the affected communities must understand the complexity of the exercise before indulging in any criticism of the administration. We are walking on a sensitive terrain in permanent rehabilitation."

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