Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of NCT of Delhi Using GIS-Based Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis

Abstract

Seismic vulnerability mapping is one of the crucial issues of planning. The study demonstrates the use of geographic information system (GIS)-based multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA) for the identification of areas of seismic vulnerability. For this purpose, various thematic maps have been prepared and with the help of the weighting criteria final seismic vulnerability assessment map was prepared using ArcGIS software. Six parameters: Seismic Micro Zonation, Lineament, Bedrock Depth, Depth of Water Level, built up density and Population Density have been taken for assessment. According to their importance weights have been generated for each criterion by comparing them with each other. Final seismic vulnerability assessment map was prepared by using these weights and criteria. To estimate the collective effects of causal factors stepwise multivariate regression analysis was also carried out. The analysis of causal factors of Seismic vulnerability such as Seismic Micro Zonation, Lineament, Bedrock Depth, Depth of Water Level, built up density and Population Density collectively explains 78% variations in it. Seismic vulnerability mapping helps planner to provide proper plan for prevention, mitigation and preparedness (PMP), where funds and efforts are used to solve the fundamental causes of vulnerability.