Development is understood as being the process that creates growth, progress, positive change or the addition of physical, economic, environmental, social and demographic components. The purpose of development is to improve the level and quality of life of the population, and the creation or expansion of income and employment opportunities, without damaging the environmental resources.
The recovery phase of the disaster management cycle aims at bringing forth normalcy in socio-economic life of the disaster-affected population and in the process the infrastructure, facilities and assets damaged and destroyed by the disaster impact are repaired and reconstructed. This thereby results in development of the disaster-affected area.
Undertaken as a routine activity or targetted post-disaster initiative the developmental process needs to incorpoeate precepts of disaster resilience and ensure that it does not enhance vulnerability and result in disaster incidences. Road connectivity though a measure of development, if unaccompanied by mitigation measures particularly in the hill areas could enhance the risk of landslides. So road construction whether undertaken routinely or for improving access to the disaster affected community should always be accompanied by the required slope stabilisation and rainwater disposal measures.
The developmental process thus provides an opportunity of implementing risk reduction measures and thereby reducing the vulnerability to disasters. Dovetailing risk reduction measures into the developmental initiatives thus ensures sustainable development.
Inclusion of development in the disaster management cycle intends to ensure that the results of disaster are effectively reflected in future policies in the interests of national progress. For instance, to produce the best possible benefits by (i) introducing improved and modernised building systems and programs, (ii) utilising international disaster assistance to optimum effect, (iii) applying disaster experience in future research and development programs, and (iv) using any other means appropriate to a particular situation.
At the same time, this linkage should be utilised to ensure that national development does not create further disaster problems, or exacerbate existing ones.