Debris from collapsed buildings, bridges and other structures, as well as uprooted trees, hoarding in the wake of a disaster, is the biggest hindrance to search, rescue and relief operations, as they lead to the disruption of communication services and transportation. As such, debris clearance is the first step towards re-establishment of transport and communication networks, and setting up of a system to enable effective search, rescue and relief efforts.
Search operations for trapped survivors should be the first concern in the event of a disaster. These are most difficult where there have been building collapses and people are buried under the rubble. In such cases, debris removal has to be taken up in a very cautions and scientific manner.
Any mistakes during debris removal can lead to further problems if the debris heaps move or settle, crushing any survivors trapped underneath. This is the reason why in such cases it is advisable to first cordon off the area and allows only technical personnel to carry out these operations. If the bystanders are allowed to take part in such operations, they may, through with good intentions, land up on the site in large numbers, and start moving the debris in a haphazard manner, thereby endangering the lives of those trapped inside.
Technological and material support is also very critical for debris removal operations. Semi-automation, with the use of earth moving equipment, lifts and cranes, removal trucks, cutters and drills etc. is useful for dealing with high mass or high sensitivity areas. To locate trapped or buried persons or animals, special sound sensing or heat sensing equipment is needed in addition to sniffer dogs. Once such a location is made, utmost care is required in handling and clearing debris at that site.
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a) Damage to Buildings
Many a times, disasters such as earthquakes as such do not kill people, building collapses do. Building collapses are widespread in case of earthquakes and cyclones and even heavy rains or floods. These kill or injure many people. Even partially damaged buildings are a big potential threat, as they may collapse due to any further stress.
Therefore, it is essential not only to remove the debris of collapsed buildings, but attention is needed on the partially damaged structures as well. In cases where they are recoverable and repairable, these should be carried out as soon as possible, and till that time the buildings or the structure should not be occupied or used.
In cases of building damage beyond repair, they should be demolished to avoid any further mishaps. A structural assessment is required immediately after the disaster in order to identify the extent of damaged and partially damaged buildings and to decide the course of action.
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b) Debris Clearance
Debris clearance in a post-disaster scenario is a complex task, not only due to high volumes and hampered accessibility, but because the nature of debris is also highly varied. It may comprise rubble from damaged buildings, bridges and other structures, uprooted trees, poles and hoarding, damaged vehicles, goods and even accumulated solid waste, which may be of bio-degradable or non-bio-degradable nature. Debris could also include harmful or injurious material and will certainly include broken glass and plastics.
During debris clearance operations, care has to be taken so as not to cause further problems endangering lives or property. Care has to be taken to safeguard survivors trapped underneath the debris and attention is also needed not to tamper with any infrastructure and service networks in the process of debris clearance. As already mentioned above, survivors should be first located. Then these areas need to be taken up first, and the trapped persons rescued before further debris clearance.