Introduction

Chowk Bazar in Tezpur, Assam, is a vibrant and historically rich marketplace located at
approximately 26.625°N latitude and 92.796°E longitude. Tezpur, often referred to as the
cultural capital of Assam, is a significant city in the North-eastern part of India. Chowk Bazar
stands as a hub of economic and social activities within this region.

Location:
Chowk Bazar is situated within the heart of Tezpur, fostering a bustling atmosphere within the
city. The marketplace serves as a central point for both locals and visitors, offering a wide array
of goods and services, creating a cultural melting pot for trade and commerce.

Historical and Cultural Aspects:

Tezpur, with its historical heritage dating back to mythological times, holds deep cultural
significance. Chowk Bazar, being a focal point within the city, is intricately linked to this
heritage. The marketplace not only represents a commercial hub but also serves as a cultural
repository. Understanding the historical context and cultural importance of the area is vital for
disaster management plans, as preservation and restoration efforts may be necessary in the
event of a disaster.

Socioeconomic Composition:

The demography of Chowk Bazar comprises a diverse mix of people from various ethnicities
and social backgrounds. The marketplace is not only a trading zone but also a social melting
pot where different communities converge. Disaster management strategies must take into
account the varied socio-economic aspects of the population, including livelihoods, access to
resources, and community structures.
Economic Vitality:

Chowk Bazar's economic vibrancy is essential to Tezpur's local economy. The market hosts an
array of businesses, from small-scale vendors to established shops, contributing significantly
to the region's economic growth. Disaster preparedness should address the potential economic
repercussions of a disaster on these businesses and livelihoods, with a focus on continuity
planning and recovery measures.

Infrastructure and Urban Planning:

Understanding the infrastructure within Chowk Bazar is crucial. The layout of the market,
building construction, drainage systems, and utility services are vital components that require
assessment for disaster management. Strategies should include strengthening and retrofitting
infrastructure to ensure resilience against potential disasters.
Chowk Bazar and nearby township : Tezpur (Assam)
Identification of Dominant Hazard : Fire (Man-made)

This iconic marketplace, bordered on every side with limited entry and exit points, faces a
unique set of challenges. The potential occurrence of a fire in such a congested and enclosed
marketplace could yield significant consequences, raising concerns about the safety and well-
being of the community and the economic vitality of the area.

The layout of Chowk Bazar, characterized by narrow passages and tightly packed shops, poses
a distinct risk in the event of a fire emergency. With limited accessibility for fire tenders and
emergency services, the prospect of managing a fire outbreak becomes notably challenging.
The blocked nature of the market exacerbates the potential for severe damages, hindering
evacuation efforts and increasing the risk of widespread destruction.

Such a scenario necessitates a meticulous and proactive approach to disaster management.

Understanding the implications of a fire outbreak in a blocked marketplace like Chowk Bazar
in Tezpur is critical for devising comprehensive strategies that encompass preventive measures,
emergency response plans, and community preparedness. Ensuring the safety of the market's
patrons, the protection of businesses, and the preservation of the cultural and economic heritage
of Chowk Bazar is paramount in mitigating the potential damages that could arise from such
an incident.
Narrow Passages : Chowk Bazar, Tezpur
Incident Analysis: Fire at Chowk Bazar, Tezpur

The devastating fire at Chowk Bazar, Tezpur, on May 9, 2021, highlights the critical aspects
of disaster management in cases of man-made hazards, specifically fires.

Fire at Chowk Bazar , Tezpur

Courtesy : Tezpur Buzz

Incident Overview:

Date and Time: May 9, 2021, around 12:20 AM, with escalation around 12:45 AM.

Response Efforts: More than 25 Fire Tenders, including support from various departments
and neighboring towns, engaged in a 6-hour-long operation to control the massive inferno.

Impact: Over 250 shops were affected, but the cemented building structure remained unburnt.
No human casualties were reported, yet more than 600 families directly dependent on the
market faced significant losses.
Probable Cause:
The suspected cause of the fire was a short circuit, although it was not definitively ascertained
at the time of the initial report.

Impact Analysis:
Economic Impact: The destruction of the economic core, Chowk Bazar, significantly impacts
the livelihoods of numerous families relying on the market. Over 1,200 families are dependent
on the market for their sustenance.

Infrastructure Impact: The structural integrity of the market's buildings remained intact,
highlighting the vulnerability of the shops and their contents.

Man-Made Hazards: Fires

1. Causes:
Electrical Short Circuits: Often a leading cause of fires in commercial areas.

Human Error: Mishandling of flammable materials or equipment, leading to fire outbreaks.

Lack of Safety Measures: Absence or inadequacy of fire suppression systems or emergency
response plans.

2. Impacts:

Economic Disruption: Destruction of the economic core of a region, impacting local businesses
and livelihoods.
Infrastructure Damage: Loss of property, goods, and buildings, affecting the overall structure
and functionality of the area.

3. Systemic Loopholes:

Fire Safety Regulations: Inadequate compliance with fire safety standards and building codes.
Emergency Response Protocols: Lack of efficient response systems and coordination among
relevant departments during emergencies.
Optimum Impact Ratings of Hazard (Fire) at Chowk Bazar, Tezpur

Impact Rating Scale:

The impact rating scale ranges from 1 to 5, with 1 being the lowest impact and 5 representing
the highest impact.

Factors Contributing to the Impact Rating:

Congestion and Blockage (Accessibility):

Rating: 5
The limited entry and exit points, along with congested pathways, significantly hinder access
for emergency services, amplifying the potential impact during a fire outbreak.

Economic Loss:
Rating: 4
Given the market's economic significance, the destruction of numerous shops and businesses
could result in a substantial economic setback for the community.

Structural Vulnerability:
Rating: 3
Although the building structures were left unburnt in the previous incident, the vulnerability of
the densely packed shops might pose risks in case of a fire outbreak.

Community Livelihoods Affected:

Rating: 4
The market supports a significant number of families directly dependent on the market's
proceeds for their livelihoods. A fire hazard could profoundly impact their sustenance.

Infrastructure and Property Damage:

Rating: 4
The potential damage to property, goods, and buildings within the market could lead to
substantial losses and infrastructure damage.
Based on the assessment of various factors, the Optimum Impact Rating for the fire hazard in
Chowk Bazar, Tezpur, would be 4.0 out of 5. This rating signifies a high level of impact,
considering the congested nature of the market, the economic significance, the vulnerability of
the structures, and the potential loss to the livelihoods of the community.

It emphasizes the urgency of implementing robust disaster management strategies to mitigate

the possible damages and ensure the safety and resilience of the community in the face of fire
hazards within Chowk Bazar, Tezpur.

Optimum Impact Rating Summary:

Frequency:
Rating: 3
While past incidents might suggest a lower frequency of major fire outbreaks, the congestion
and infrastructure make the area susceptible to potential fire hazards.

Magnitude:
Rating: 4
The potential magnitude of a fire outbreak in Chowk Bazar, given the densely packed market,
could be substantial. It has the potential to cause significant destruction, economic loss, and
community impact.

Exposure Time:
Rating: 5
The longer exposure time due to limited accessibility, hindering rapid response and evacuation,
amplifies the potential impact of any fire incident in the enclosed market area.

Based on the assessment of various factors, the Optimum Impact Rating for the fire hazard in
Chowk Bazar, Tezpur, would be 4.0 out of 5. This rating signifies a high level of impact,
considering the congested nature of the market, the economic significance, the vulnerability of
the structures, and the potential loss to the livelihoods of the community.
It emphasizes the urgency of implementing robust disaster management strategies to mitigate
the possible damages and ensure the safety and resilience of the community in the face of fire
hazards within Chowk Bazar, Tezpur.

Other Possible Hazards : Earthquake (Natural)

The region's susceptibility to seismic activity coupled with the presence of aged and potentially
vulnerable constructions raises concerns about earthquake preparedness and the resilience of
the area.

Vulnerability to Earthquakes:

Structural Integrity:
The historical buildings and structures within Chowk Bazar are often aged, potentially lacking
adherence to modern seismic standards.
The compromised structural integrity of older constructions might amplify the risk of damage
during seismic events.
The structural layout of Chowk Bazar, characterized by broken and often congested passages,
poses a significant challenge for evacuation in the event of an earthquake.

Limited Evacuation Routes:

The blocked and congested nature of the market can hinder rapid evacuation during an
earthquake, especially if passages or narrow streets are further disrupted by seismic activity.
The already confined pathways, if further obstructed by debris or structural damage, could
impede escape routes for residents and shoppers in an emergency.

Risk of Entrapment:

The potential collapse of aged or poorly maintained structures, compounded by blocked

passages, increases the risk of entrapment or being unable to escape swiftly during seismic
events.
Present Infrastructure : Chowk Bazar, Tezpur
Building Materials:

Traditional construction materials used in older buildings might not meet earthquake-resistant
standards, thereby increasing the susceptibility of damage during tremors.

Past Instances and References:

Historical Earthquake Impact:

Assam, including Tezpur, has faced seismic events historically. For instance, the 1950 Assam-
Tibet earthquake caused significant damage in the region, emphasizing the vulnerability to
earthquakes.

Building Vulnerabilities in Older Structures:

Analogous examples of historical structures succumbing to seismic events in different parts of

the world showcase the risk posed by aged constructions during earthquakes.
Reference to the impact on heritage sites or older buildings during seismic events provides
insights into potential risks.

Risk Assessment and Preparedness:

Seismic Zoning:
Understanding the local seismic hazard and zoning maps is crucial to assess the specific risk
level Chowk Bazar faces in case of an earthquake.

Building Assessment:
Conducting structural evaluations of the buildings to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities
in the event of seismic activity.
Analyzing the structural materials, construction techniques, and retrofitting requirements for
older buildings to enhance their earthquake resilience.
Disaster Management Recommendations:

Retrofitting and Renovation:

Implementing retrofitting measures to improve the seismic resilience of older buildings,

ensuring they meet updated safety standards.
Encouraging renovation initiatives to strengthen structural integrity and reinforce buildings
against seismic forces.

Community Awareness and Preparedness:

Conducting awareness programs to educate residents and building owners about earthquake
risks, safety measures, and evacuation protocols.
Promoting community engagement and participation in earthquake readiness initiatives.

Regulatory Interventions:
Enforcing and updating building codes and regulations to ensure new constructions and
renovations adhere to seismic safety standards.
Providing incentives or support for property owners to invest in structural reinforcement and
seismic retrofitting.

Summary:

Chowk Bazar's susceptibility to seismic risks due to aged and potentially vulnerable buildings
warrants immediate attention to ensure disaster resilience. Learning from historical seismic
events, implementing structural evaluations, retrofitting measures, community engagement,
and regulatory improvements are essential steps in fortifying Chowk Bazar against potential
earthquake hazards. This detailed analysis emphasizes the critical need for proactive
earthquake preparedness and mitigation strategies to safeguard the area's structural integrity
and the safety of its residents.
Other pertaining issues in the nearby areas :

In India, municipalities and urban planning authorities usually define stipulated norms and
regulations for the gaps between houses in residential areas. These norms may vary based on
the type of area (urban, rural, etc.), the classification of the locality, and the specific city or
state regulations. However, some common guidelines include:

Urban Areas:
Front Setbacks: Minimum space required between the front boundary of the plot and the front
face of the building.
Rear Setbacks: Space required between the rear boundary of the plot and the rear face of the
building.
Side Setbacks: Space required between the side boundaries of the plot and the side faces of the
building.
Implications on Disaster Risks:

Reduced Accessibility for Emergency Services:

Excessive clustering without adequate setbacks can hinder the access of emergency services
during disasters like fires or earthquakes. Narrow pathways between buildings impede quick
response times and evacuation efforts.

Increased Vulnerability to Fire Hazards:

Insufficient setbacks or open spaces may promote fire spread between structures. In the event
of a fire outbreak, proximity between buildings can escalate the risk of widespread damage.

Limited Evacuation Routes during Emergencies:

Congested areas with minimal open spaces limit the number of viable evacuation routes during
emergencies. This restriction could intensify the challenges of evacuating residents safely.
Exacerbation of Structural Damage during Earthquakes:
Insufficient setbacks might result in buildings constructed too close to each other. During
seismic events, the proximity can lead to structural collision or collapsing, heightening the risk
of casualties and damage.

Setting up food stalls involving the use of fire beneath or near electric poles poses a significant
risk and potential disaster due to the combination of flammable materials, electrical
infrastructure, and potential safety hazards.

Risk of Fire Hazards:

Electrical Hazards:
The proximity of open flames to electrical poles raises the risk of accidental fires caused by
sparks or heat transferring to the infrastructure.

Flammable Materials and Cooking Equipment:

Food stalls often utilize flammable cooking fuels or equipment, increasing the risk of fire
accidents when placed in close proximity to electric poles.

Potential Risks:
Electrical Malfunctions:
Heat or sparks generated from the food preparation area can potentially damage electrical
components, leading to short circuits, malfunctions, or electrical fires in the infrastructure.

Fire Spread:
In the event of a fire outbreak near the electrical poles, the proximity increases the risk of rapid
fire spread to adjacent structures, electric lines, or utility poles, amplifying the potential
damage.

Public Safety Concerns:

Risks to public safety escalate due to the immediate vicinity of pedestrians, customers, or
vendors near these fire-prone areas.
Vendors setting up food stalls near electric poles
The setup of food stalls involving fire in the vicinity of electric poles raises substantial risks of
fire accidents, electrical malfunctions, and potential disaster. It's imperative to enforce stringent
regulations, raise public awareness, and identify alternative, safer locations to prevent the
catastrophic consequences that may arise due to these fire hazards in proximity to electrical
infrastructure. Safety measures and responsible practices are crucial to mitigate these risks and
ensure the well-being of the community and the integrity of the electrical infrastructure.

Overall Vulnerability Analysis :

 Dominant Hazard (Fire)

1. Overcrowding: An excessive amount of people in a market might provide a serious

fire risk. During a fire emergency, it might be difficult to evacuate a limited area
quickly and effectively when there are too many people there. The chance of an
ignite is increased when customers and vendors are close to one another and
combustible items. Panic can strike during a fire, causing injuries and stampedes.

2. Inadequate ventilation can cause smoke and harmful gases to build up, making it
harder for people to breathe and impeding firefighting operations. To keep a space
clear and safe, there must be sufficient ventilation systems as well as windows and
vents that can be opened in the event of a fire.

3. Extinguishers and fire sprinklers are essential tools for controlling and suppressing
flames. Without them, a small fire has the potential to grow rapidly into an
uncontrollable huge conflagration.

 Others (Earthquake)

1. Unsecured Shelves and Merchandise: In the event of an earthquake, unsecured

shelves and merchandise may fall and cause havoc. It is essential to secure these
objects to avoid harm and damage.
 2. Unstable Facades: During an earthquake, weak or unreinforced building facades are
more likely to collapse. Reinforcement of the facade is necessary to stop these
dangers.

 Dynamic Pressure

Crowd Movement Dynamic Pressure:

Tezpur Chowk Bazaar experiences daily congestion due to the movement of shoppers,
sellers, and visitors. In the event of a fire, the crowd's movement can create a significant
force, potentially leading to overcrowding and panic during evacuation, which must be
managed to prevent accidents and injuries.

Fire Spread Dynamic Pressure:

The market's narrow alleys and tightly packed stalls could facilitate the rapid spread of
a fire. The dynamic pressure generated by the fire's heat and gases can influence its
progression, making it essential to understand these dynamics for effective fire
prevention and management

Smoke Movement Dynamic Pressure:

Smoke from a fire can obstruct visibility and affect breathing within the congested
market. Understanding how smoke moves through the marketplace's tight spaces is
crucial for minimizing its impact and ensuring safe egress.

Emergency Exit Dynamic Pressure:

Tezpur Chowk Bazaar's emergency exit routes need to accommodate the dynamic
pressure generated by evacuating crowds. Adequate design and signage can help
prevent congestion and confusion during emergencies
 Structural Dynamic Pressure:
The structural integrity of market buildings is a concern during a fire. The heat and
flames may exert dynamic pressure on the structures, leading to potential collapse or
other structural risks.

Exit Time Dynamic Pressure:

In the event of a fire, the time it takes for shoppers and vendors to evacuate Tezpur
Chowk Bazaar is critical. Dynamic pressure may increase if evacuation routes become
congested, emphasizing the need for efficient, well-maintained escape paths.

 Root Causes

1. The layout of Chowk Bazaar is such that the alleyways are quite narrow for easy
mobility especially during a hazard. It is also difficult for fire engines and
emergency services to quickly access the area.

2. People including the buyers and sellers are not properly educated on fire safety
precautions and evacuation procedures. There are no fire extinguishers and other
safety devices/ equipment in the stalls increasing the risk involved.
DISASTER RISK REDUCTION PLAN :

Creating a disaster management plan for Chowk Bazar in Tezpur, considering the identified
risks and analysis, should involve the following steps:

1. Establish the Context:

Context Description:

- Chowk Bazar, a historic and vibrant marketplace in Tezpur, Assam, faces significant risks,
primarily from fire hazards due to its congested layout and limited access points.

- The market's socio-economic importance and cultural significance add to the urgency of
devising a comprehensive disaster management plan.

Stakeholder Identification:

- Engage with local government bodies, market associations, business owners, residents,
emergency services, and community leaders.

- Establish a clear chain of communication and responsibility among stakeholders.

2. Identified Risks:

Dominant Hazard:

- Fire hazards due to the market's congested layout, limited entry/exit points, and lack of fire
safety measures.

- Potential risk from earthquakes due to aged and vulnerable constructions.

Specific Risks:

- Overcrowding during emergencies leading to difficulty in evacuation.

- Limited accessibility for emergency services during a disaster.

- Unsecured shelves and merchandise causing harm during an earthquake.

- Unstable building facades posing risks during seismic events.

- Food stalls near electric poles heightening fire hazards.

3. Analysis:

Risk Impact Assessment:

- Fire hazards rated 4 out of 5 due to the market's congestion and economic significance.

- Earthquake risks highlighted by the structural vulnerabilities and historical seismic events.

Vulnerability Dynamics:

- Dynamic pressures such as crowd movement, fire spread, smoke movement, emergency exit
constraints, structural risks, and exit time are key factors influencing disaster impacts.

Root Causes:

- Narrow pathways hindering mobility during hazards.

- Lack of fire safety education and equipment among vendors and buyers.

4. Evaluate and Treat Risks:

Mitigation Strategies:

- Fire Hazard Mitigation

- Fire Safety Education: Conduct regular awareness programs for vendors and visitors.

- Fire Safety Equipment: Distribute and enforce the use of fire extinguishers and other safety
devices at stalls.

- Infrastructure Modification: Widening pathways for better access and installing adequate
ventilation.

- Earthquake Preparedness:

- Structural Assessments: Evaluate older buildings for seismic resilience and enforce
retrofitting measures.

Community Engagement: Educate residents on earthquake risks and safe practices during
seismic events.

-Regulatory Improvements: Enforce building codes and incentives for seismic reinforcement.
- Public Safety Measures:

Relocation of Food Stalls: Identify safer locations away from electrical poles to mitigate fire
hazards.

- Stakeholder Collaboration: Establish a committee involving local authorities, market

associations, and residents to oversee safety measures.

- Emergency Response Plans:

- Evacuation Drills: Conduct periodic evacuation exercises to ensure preparedness.

- Communication Protocols: Establish efficient communication channels for emergencies.

- Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation:

- Regular assessment of the market's safety measures and community preparedness.

- Adapt the disaster management plan based on lessons learned from drills and real incidents.

Examples:

- Highlight successful disaster management initiatives from similar marketplaces or regions

and their impact on reducing disaster-related losses.

- Provide case studies of areas that improved their disaster resilience through strategic
interventions.

Conclusion:

Summarize the comprehensive disaster management plan for Chowk Bazar, emphasizing the
need for continuous vigilance, community engagement, and a multi-faceted approach towards
disaster preparedness. Stress the importance of implementation and periodic review of the plan
for effective risk mitigation.
SOURCE : ASSAM STATE DISASTER MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (ASDMA)
REFERENCES :

 Assam State Disaster Management Authority. (n.d.). Assam State Disaster

Management Plan Volume 2 [PDF]. Retrieved from
https://asdma.assam.gov.in/sites/default/files/swf_utility_folder/departments/
asdma_revenue_uneecopscloud_com_oid_70/menu/document/assam_state_di
saster_management_plan_volume_2.pdf

 http://www.irr-neram.ca/pdf_files/ISO%2031000.pdf

 ISO 31000:2009 - Risk management. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.irr-

neram.ca/pdf_files/ISO%2031000.pdf

 [Fire at Chowk Bazar]. (n.d.). Retrieved from Google Images.

(https://images.app.goo.gl/ke1Y7UKK7NJqb19m8)