Thesis Abstract

Disaster management centers are vital infrastructures that serve as hubs for coordinating and responding to various emergencies and disasters. In the context of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, the need for a well-designed disaster management center is essential due to the region's susceptibility to natural disasters such as floods, oil spills, and other environmental hazards. This research project aims to explore architecture project topics for a disaster management center in Port Harcourt that addresses the unique challenges faced by the region. The study will focus on identifying key architectural considerations for designing a disaster management center that can effectively respond to and mitigate the impact of disasters in Port Harcourt. This will involve analyzing the local environmental conditions, topography, and existing infrastructure to inform the design process. Additionally, the project will investigate best practices and case studies of disaster management centers from around the world to glean insights into effective design strategies. One of the primary objectives of the research is to develop a sustainable and resilient architectural design that can withstand the diverse range of disasters that Port Harcourt may face. This will involve incorporating elements such as flood-resistant construction, robust structural systems, and efficient spatial planning to ensure the center remains operational during emergencies. Furthermore, the design will prioritize accessibility, flexibility, and scalability to accommodate various disaster response scenarios and evolving needs. In addition to the physical design aspects, the project will also explore the integration of technology and communication systems within the disaster management center. This includes implementing state-of-the-art monitoring tools, communication networks, and information management systems to enhance the center's ability to coordinate response efforts and disseminate critical information during crises. Overall, the research project aims to contribute to the development of a comprehensive and innovative architecture project for a disaster management center in Port Harcourt. By addressing the unique challenges and requirements of the region, the design will seek to improve disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts in Port Harcourt and serve as a model for other disaster-prone areas. The findings of this study will be valuable for architects, urban planners, emergency responders, and policymakers involved in disaster management and infrastructure development.

Thesis Overview

1.1BACKGROUNDTOTHESTUDY THE NEED FOR A DISASTER MANAGEMENT CENTRE Disaster means a progressive or sudden, widespread or localised, natural or human caused occurrence which causes or threatens to cause; Death, injury or disease, Damage to property, infrastructure or the environment, Disruption of the life of a community; and is of the magnitude that exceeds the ability of those affected