The role of perception of local government officials on climate change and resilient development: a case of Uttarakhand, India
International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment
ISSN: 1759-5908
Article publication date: 27 August 2020
Issue publication date: 15 March 2021
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to gain insight on the perception and role of the local government officials on climate change and resilience in Uttarakhand, India. Uttarakhand, being a sensitive mountainous region in India, faces the brunt of frequent climate-related disasters and their severe impacts. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how authorities perceive the issue of climate-related disasters and their level of commitment toward mitigation and adaptation programs.
Design/methodology/approach
The literature review method was used for a holistic understanding of the impact of climate change and consequential disasters. A questionnaire survey method, comprising open- and closed-ended questions, was also used on officials of different departments.
Findings
Among the noteworthy findings of the study include the understanding of the perceptions of authorities and their role in decision-making on mitigating impacts of climate change-related disasters, their support or lack of it, for measures toward capacity building and spreading awareness of the intervention programs by the government. The study analyzes the perception of decision-making officials at state and district levels and infers that the variation on opinions may be attributable to multiple factors, including their past experiences of dealing with disasters.
Originality/value
This study offers insights into the role of perception of local government officials concerning climate change-related disasters and alleviation of their consequences through related programs. The findings have the unique potential to serve as a guide for the government at state and district levels to assess various aspects of different disaster mitigation measures based on sectors and departments.
Keywords
Citation
Chondol, T., Panda, A.K., Gupta, A.K., Agrawal, N. and Kaur, A. (2021), "The role of perception of local government officials on climate change and resilient development: a case of Uttarakhand, India", International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, Vol. 12 No. 2, pp. 184-195. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJDRBE-01-2020-0003
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited