Analyzing the sequence and interrelations of Natech disasters in urban areas using interpretive structural modelling (ISM)

Purpose: Natural disasters such as earthquake, flood and hurricane always threaten human life and societies. A major challenge is technological hazards triggered by such disasters, especially in metropolises and urban areas. Thus, these hazards have been the focus of interest in many countries, and suitable crisis management plans have been made to address them. The purpose of this study was to cluster technological hazards caused by natural disasters in urban areas. Design/methodology/approach: According to literature, a set of 15 technological hazards was identified whose magnificence and interrelations were analysed using interpretive structural modelling technique. DEMATEL technique was used to determine internal relations among the hazards and to draw a network relation map. Findings: The results revealed that dam failing, water supply disruption and building collapse form the base of the structural model. Originality/value: The authors developed a structural model representing the hierarchy and interrelations among various elements of technological hazards caused by natural disaster. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this was the first attempt to reveal internal relations of Natech factors. Finally, some recommendations were proposed for crisis management according to research findings.