Post-Earthquake Mitigation of Electricity Power Systems, a Case of Siliguri

Abstract

Earthquakes are a common phenomenon in the Indian subcontinent. The catastrophe is severe in the epicenter of the earthquake, but adjacent areas may also suffer. It further leads to a post-disaster crisis since the earthquakes severely compromise the physical and social infrastructure of the affected area. Power outages are frequently observed during and after significant earthquakes. The duration of the outage in any area is significantly influenced by disruptions to the electric power lines that serve the area. This research targets to study the impact of earthquakes on the electricity-based power systems of Siliguri, West Bengal, India. Critical appraisal of disaster management plans has been conducted to develop an operational contingency plan for adequate power outage management in disaster-prone zones of the case area. A substitute distribution layout is provided in the post-disaster timeline to cater to the electricity needs in less affected zones immediately. The paper further discusses some strategies and policy recommendations to combat the infrastructural challenges generally caused by earthquakes.