Donation
Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts lie in Seismic Zone IV, recognized as a seismically active region. They possess rugged landscapes including high mountains, deep gorge-like valleys, and steep slopes rendering them highly vulnerable to disasters such as earthquakes and landslides, which are often triggered by earthquakes. In response to these eminent hazards, Cartas India and Anugyalaya launched a 3 years DRR project entitled “Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction and Environment in Darjeeling Hills (IDRRE)” with the funding support of Caritas Germany.
The project identified earthquakes as a major hazard and planned risk assessments and preparedness measures, some of which are technical, therefore requiring sectoral technical experts. For this purpose, Caritas Germany hired the National Society for Earthquake Technology (NSET) to provide technical assistance to Anugyalaya and Caritas India.
Duration: June 2023 to March, 2024
Funded by: Caritas Germany
Geographical Coverage: Darjeeling and Kalimpong, India
Partnership: Anugyalaya and Caritas India
OBJECTIVES AND AREA for Cooperation
The objective of the cooperation is to provide technical support to Anugyalaya and Caritas India, the implementing partners of Caritas Germany, in activities planned for earthquake preparedness including a risk assessment of the Darjeeling bazaar.
Key Activities
- Conducted the seismic hazard study for the project area.
- Delivered Training of Trainers (TOT) to engineers from Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts.
- Supported the team in conducting a capacity needs assessment.
- Provided inputs and discussions on opportunities for further collaboration in the future.