Socio-Economic Impact of Multi-Hazards on Urban Settings: Possible Approaches to Building Resilience Among Urban Communities in Sri Lanka as Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic

The detrimental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on socio-economic structures were doubled due to many countries encountering concurrent hazards, particularly climate-induced hazards. The impact of such compound hazards on urban communities was intense and complex for several reasons. On the other hand, the vulnerability of urban communities was a significant factor during compound hazards, as preparedness and response measures became crucial for addressing the full spectrum of urban diversity. This paper aims to investigate the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the compounded hazards encountered during it on urban societies across Sri Lanka, with a focus on vulnerable groups. A desk study was conducted in two stages to collect data. The first stage involved a comprehensive search of international peer-reviewed literature on urban planning, multi-hazard risk management, urban resilience frameworks, and disaster vulnerability. In the second stage, the research focused on examining various studies that assess the implications of COVID-19 and concurrent hazards concerning the socio-economic effects on urban society in Sri Lanka. Data was analysed using the thematic approach. Findings suggest that urban, vulnerable communities have been more adversely affected than their relatively well-off counterparts. In a multi-hazard context, these vulnerabilities can be compounded, pushing such communities into greater deprivation. While urban resilience is key to mitigating multi-hazard risk, it is important that equity and justice concerns are embedded in resilience-building efforts.