Temporary housing site selection in Soffeh Mountain, District 5 of Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Purpose Finding an appropriate place for temporary housing after an earthquake is one of the main challenges of disaster risk management, especially in developing countries. Therefore, it is necessary to create pre-disaster location plans for the homeless population. This study aims to systematically find safe places and select suitable sites according to influential factors. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology used is a descriptive–analytical method. A field survey with a quantitative–qualitative approach is applied to recognize physical vulnerabilities and select suitable sites for temporary settlements. Due to the occurrence of several earthquakes in recent decades around the city of Isfahan, Iran, this area has been studied. Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process, geographic information system and rapid visual screening have been used for data analysis. Findings According to the site selection and vulnerability criteria and their prioritization, the findings indicate that 60% of the study area is vulnerable. Moreover, vacant lots, stadiums and public green spaces that can be used as multi-purpose sites are the most appropriate options for the temporary settlement. Practical implications The research criteria are generalizable and can be used for decision-making, concerning urban fabric vulnerability and site selection of temporary housing in cities exposed to earthquake risk. Originality/value Cultural features, accessibility, land conditions, the slope and type of land, availability and construction materials were addressed in locating temporary settlements. In addition to vacant lots and open spaces, safe buildings were also identified for temporary housing, and religious minorities and similar communities were considered.

Use of Field Reserves in Emergencies as Assessed by Urban Residents and Refugees in Warsaw and Lviv during the War in Ukraine

“…Most of the analyzed studies considered transport accessibility [45]; proximity to the main infrastructure facilities [46]; shelter size [47]; the safety of the site; the ownership of the site; the nature of the surface of the site; and other economic, social, and cultural factors [48,49], as the most important criteria. Moreover, vacant lots, stadiums, and public green spaces that could be used as multi-purpose sites were the most appropriate options for temporary settlement [50]. The characteristics of plots for placing temporary housing were considered in more detail in a study by Iranian scientists [51].…”

Analyzing the Shelter Site Selection Criteria for Disaster Preparedness Using Best–Worst Method under Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Sets

“…Ghomi et al [23] investigated the performance of post-disaster housing reconstruction projects and investigated its applicability to provide sustainable post-disaster housing following natural-hazard-induced disasters. Hosseini et al [24] presented a model for selecting the most suitable temporary housing sustainability based on the characteristics and requirements. The model consists of the integrated value model for sustainability assessment, a simplified life cycle assessment, interviews, and sensibility analyses.…”