Flood perception and risk communication: understanding the impact of poverty on Vulnerability- A case study from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Abstract
This study investigates the perception of flood risks and the effectiveness of risk communication among residents living near the River Kabul and River Swat in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, particularly in the flood-prone districts of Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected through structured questionnaires from a randomly selected sample of individuals residing in these regions. Key variables included flood perception (independent) and risk communication (dependent), while the economic consequences of floods were explored through cross-tabulation and chi-square analysis. The results revealed a significant positive correlation between flood experience, awareness, and trust with effective risk communication, while fear did not significantly influence communication levels. Further analysis indicated a strong statistical association between flood exposure and individual economic losses, including savings, earnings, and rising poverty levels. The findings underscore the crucial role of localized risk perception in enhancing communication strategies and mitigating flood-related vulnerabilities. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions focusing on community awareness, preparedness, and poverty alleviation to strengthen flood resilience in the region.
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