Land Readjustment and Disaster Management Planning Integration: An Assessment on Public Resource Optimization

Abstract

Disasters not only result in loss of life and property but also impose significant long-term burdens on public budgets. Particularly after devastating earthquakes, damage to housing, public buildings, transportation networks, energy systems, and educational infrastructure necessitates the allocation of substantial public resources for reconstruction and recovery efforts. Therefore, increasing response capacity alone is insufficient in disaster management; developing planning approaches that reduce risks before disasters occur is equally important. In this context, the integration of land readjustment practices with disaster management plans emerges as a strategic tool for both mitigating disaster risks and limiting post-disaster public expenditures.

This study examines how the integration of disaster management plans with land readjustment policies contributes to the efficient use of public resources. The research evaluates the effects of pre-disaster preventive measures on post-disaster public spending. It analyzes the role of land readjustment in risk reduction and resilience building by drawing on evidence from the 1994 Northridge Earthquake in the United States and the 1999 Chi-Chi Earthquake in Taiwan. In addition, the legal frameworks and planning systems of Türkiye and Japan are comparatively examined.

The study is based on a qualitative research design employing document analysis. Urban planning legislation, disaster management plans, national policy documents, and international disaster risk reduction frameworks were reviewed. The findings indicate that the strongest alignment with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction is provided by Zoning Law No. 3194 and Law No. 6306 on the Transformation of Areas Under Disaster Risk. In contrast, the Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Law No. 7221, the Turkish Disaster Risk Reduction Plan (TARAP), and the Turkish Post-Disaster Recovery Plan (TASİP) demonstrate a moderate level of alignment, while the Turkish Disaster Response Plan (TAMP) has a more limited relationship with land readjustment practices.

The study concludes that response-oriented approaches alone are insufficient for reducing disaster-related costs. Land readjustment policies integrated with disaster management plans and GIS-based integrated planning practices can make significant contributions to both the development of disaster-resilient settlements and the sustainable and efficient management of public resources.