1. Disaster Recovery and Build Back Better

Welcome to the course disaster recovery and build back better. My name is Ram Sateesh. I am an assistant professor from Department of Architecture and Planning, IIT Roorkee. Today, we are going to take some lessons from a very different geography of the world from the South American side - Peru. So, this I call it as lessons from Peru.

In this introduction, the professor sets the context of the course focusing on disaster recovery and the concept of 'Build Back Better.' He emphasizes that the lessons will be drawn from Peru, which presents a unique geographical and social context to study disaster recovery strategies.

Consider learning from a successful sports team in a different region. Just like a coach watches teams from various backgrounds to adopt their winning strategies, gathering insights from Peru's recovery efforts will help us understand diverse approaches to rebuilding after a disaster.

I am going to discuss information gathered from various resources; one is the earlier discussed version of build back better by Michael Leone and Theo Schilderman and as well as with Camillo Boano. They tried to compile a variety of cases from that geographical region.

The professor refers to the foundational research by Michael Leone, Theo Schilderman, and Camillo Boano, which explores different recovery strategies in Peru following disasters. These cases are critical as they provide evidence of how local populations have adapted to their challenges after disasters, offering a diverse range of recovery experiences.

Imagine a student gathering notes from various subjects to prepare for a final exam. Just as the student uses a range of resources to build a solid understanding, the professor is using a variety of research studies to illustrate effective disaster recovery methods.

They have taken about 6 study areas affected by different earthquakes at different times and parts of Peru. Number 1: San Martin area, Alto Mayo, affected by 1990 and 1991 earthquakes. Number 2: Piura Morropón region associated with the floods and El Nino. Then there are the Ayacucho earthquake of 1999 and the Moquegua earthquake in 2001.

The professor highlights six specific areas in Peru that have experienced significant earthquakes or disasters. Each case study offers unique insights into the different challenges faced and responses initiated by the communities. The timeframe and nature of these disasters allow for comparative analysis of recovery strategies.

Think of it like different departments in a company handling their crises distinctly based on their products and market conditions. Each area in Peru faced unique challenges, just as departments in a company may have unique ways to address customer complaints or product failures.

Let us go case by case and briefly discuss what they have worked on. I’ll discuss about the technological aspects in the first case because many things are common in all cases but with slight variations.

The professor outlines that each case study will be analyzed for its technological adaptations that address the specific needs of the communities affected by disasters. This allows for an understanding of how different building methods were adopted or discarded based on the local contexts.

Consider a chef who modifies a recipe based on the ingredients available in each season. Similarly, the responses to disasters are adapted based on local materials and technologies suitable for each unique situation.

In 1990, the Alto Mayo region experienced a 6.2 magnitude earthquake that led to many casualties and destruction. Practical Action Group carried out the recovery process focusing on long-term reconstruction rather than short-term relief.

The Alto Mayo earthquake significantly harmed the community. The Practical Action Group emphasized planning for long-term recovery, which involves assessing needs and ensuring sustainable rebuilding rather than just providing immediate aid. This strategic approach can lead to better, more resilient communities.

Imagine a gardener who plants seeds but only focuses on watering them for a week; those plants won't thrive. However, if the gardener prepares the soil, waters it regularly, and fertilizes it, they will grow strong and healthy, much like how communities need structured support to recover effectively from disasters.

With consultations from local leaders, they decided to discard the use of rammed earth and adobe and promote the quincha timber-frame construction as a better earthquake-resistant material.

In collaboration with local leaders, the decision was made to move away from traditional building methods (like adobe) due to their lack of earthquake resistance. Instead, quincha timber-frame construction was promoted as it offers better safety during earthquakes.

Much like upgrading an old phone to a newer model that has enhanced features, communities recognized that adapting to new building technologies can significantly improve safety and resilience during disasters.

In quincha construction, timber posts serve as the frame and bamboo is woven into screens for walls, covered with layers of render to provide both structure and insulation.

The quincha construction incorporates a sustainable method where local materials are used effectively. This method allows the structure to be both flexible and resilient, gaining strength from the arrangement of materials. The layers of render also protect against weather elements.

Think of a layered cake. Each layer not only acts individually but together they create a strong structure that is enjoyable. Just like that, the layers in quincha construction provide strength and protection against elements and potential earthquakes.

--