The course introduces the application aspects of a methodology for the systematic and consistent assessment and collection of data on the damage caused to physical structures, infrastructures, the environment and social and economic systems following the occurrence of disaster, from which an accurate assessment of financial losses can be determined.

The course provides theoretical knowledge for estimating the socio-economic and environmental effects of disaster adapting ECLAC (Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean) methodology and its practical sessions on applications. Few damage and loss estimation case studies are presented such as damage assessment in Gujarat Earthquake and comparison of tsunami damage and losses in five countries in Asia. This not only becomes a learning experience but also provides useful insights in to the real impact of long term losses and damages which is mostly replacement cost.

Thus, the course is developed to provide:

• Training on usage of ECLAC methodology for damage and loss estimation

• The participants, trained in ECLAC methodology, will be able to assess damages and

• estimate losses after disasters and will develop recovery programs based on such

• assessments

• Usage of uniform methodology for loss estimation using ECLAC methodology by various countries

The target group consisted of key institutions that are responsible for assessing damages and estimating losses due to natural disasters. The course participants are expected to adopt the ECLAC methodology in their respective countries in developing formats for assessment survey work and in conducting damage assessments and in estimating losses in the case of future disaster events.

The activity will indirectly help in achievement of the Millennium Development Goals such as poverty alleviation since the assessments will show the sectors and areas (districts, local government areas etc) with high economic and social vulnerabilities (disaster impacts and losses), where government interventions have to be planned during the recovery phase as well during allocation of additional development funds, under annual budgets.

The following are major subjects covered in the course.

1. Comprehensive damage and loss assessment

2. Conceptual framework for damage and loss estimation (the simplified ECLAC methodology)

3. Social sector assessment

4. Infrastructure sector assessment

5. Productive sector assessment

6. Total impact of disasters

7. Example of application: Impact of 26th December 2004 Indian Ocean Disaster

8. A case study of Gujarat Earthquake

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