The role of technology in spatial planning to reduce fire disaster risks in informal settlements in Mopani District Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Juliet Akola (University of Venda), James Chakwizira (University of Venda), Emmaculate Ingwani (University of Venda), Peter Bikam (University of Venda)
Keywords: Informal Settlements, Fire Risks, Technology, Community, Mopani
Friday October 25, 13:45–15:15, A2, John Moffat Building
The Role of Technology in Spatial Planning to Reduce Fire Disaster Risks in Informal Settlements in Mopani District Municipality, South Africa
Abstract
As the world rapidly urbanises, there is a proliferation of fire disasters, especially in informal settlements around cities in the world. This is attributed to fire disaster risks often stemming from inadequate infrastructure and socio-economic conditions such as reliance on hazardous sources of energy and the use of highly combustible building materials. Fire disaster risks can be devastating leading to damage of assets, loss of property and at times loss of lives. It is therefore imperative to use technological advancements in spatial planning to improve safety in informal settlements. Besides, in the global south, there is limited reliable data on how technology can be used in spatial planning to reduce fire disaster risks in informal settlements including in South Africa. The study, therefore, explores the role of technology in spatial planning to reduce fire disaster risks in informal settlements in Mopani District Municipality, South Africa. Empirical data was collected using interviews and a questionnaire from households that were selected using stratified sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to explore the role of technology in spatial planning to reduce fire disaster risks in informal settlements in Mopani District Municipality, South Africa. Findings indicate that promoting the use of clean energy, building with non-combustible construction materials, promoting evacuation and firefighting interventions are critical to protecting life, minimise property damage and limit impacts of fire disaster risks on livelihoods. Therefore, leveraging technology in spatial planning, can significantly mitigate fire disaster risks in informal settlements, enhance community resilience and promote sustainable development.