OPERATIONAL SUMMARY OF FULL ARTICLE: ADVISORY NOTE ON NO DWELLING ZONES 2014.

The Humanitarian Country Team’s position with respect to the proposed ‘no dwelling zones’ is as follows: 

1. Emergency support including emergency shelter of a non-permanent type (including tarpaulin, CGI sheeting, timber and fixings) as well as corresponding WASH, health, education, livelihoods, protection and CCCM support should be permitted; 
2. Relocation from the proposed no dwelling zones should be a measure of last resort therefore comprehensive hazard and vulnerability mapping should be carried out at the LGU level in all hazard prone areas. Where relocation is justifiable, durable relocation plans should be developed in consultation with the affected communities; and 
3. Detailed and effective risk reduction plans should be seriously considered including early warning systems, robust evacuation centres, raised housing, mangrove planting and coastal ditches. 

Caution must be taken where obvious risks are evident and where LGUs have already identified relocation sites and are following due process.