Why are megacities in developing countries at greater risk of earthquakes?

Megacities in developing countries are at greater risk of earthquakes due to inadequate infrastructure and lack of preparedness.

Megacities, defined as urban areas with a population of over 10 million people, are often located in geologically active regions. This is particularly true for developing countries where rapid urbanisation often coincides with areas of seismic activity. However, the primary reason these megacities are at greater risk is not solely due to their location, but rather their lack of resources and infrastructure to adequately prepare for and respond to such disasters.

In many developing countries, the rapid pace of urbanisation often outstrips the ability of governments to provide adequate infrastructure and enforce building codes. As a result, many buildings in these megacities are not constructed to withstand seismic activity. This is particularly true in informal settlements or slums, where construction is often unregulated and buildings are made from materials that are not earthquake-resistant. In the event of an earthquake, these buildings can collapse, leading to significant loss of life and property.

Furthermore, developing countries often lack the resources and systems necessary for effective disaster management. This includes early warning systems, emergency response capabilities, and plans for evacuation and shelter. Without these systems in place, the impact of an earthquake can be significantly worse. For example, in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, a lack of coordination and resources led to a slow and ineffective response, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Lastly, the high population density in megacities can also increase the risk. In the event of an earthquake, the large number of people in a concentrated area can lead to higher casualties and make rescue efforts more difficult. This is compounded by the fact that many people in these cities live in poverty, and lack the resources to prepare for or recover from such a disaster.

In conclusion, while the geological location of many megacities in developing countries does put them at risk of earthquakes, it is the lack of infrastructure, resources, and preparedness that makes them particularly vulnerable.