The role of GIS-enabled mobile applications in disaster management: A case analysis of cyclone Gaja in India

摘要

Geographic information systems (GIS) have generated great interest in the field of disaster management and have stimulated rich discussions in the domain. This case study describes how we selected and adapted a GIS-enabled mobile application to be used by field workers in the aftermath of cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu in 2018. It also analyses how the app was used by field workers to ensure faster electricity restoration in the cyclone-hit site. The app helped decision-makers, middle managers/supervisors, and field workers achieve faster restoration and deliver a more efficient post-disaster emergency response. The findings of this study could serve as a guide for emergency restoration teams in similar disaster management scenarios in the future.