GIS-Based Identification and Analysis of Optimal Evacuation AreasandRoutesinFlood-ProneZonesofSwabiDistrict,Pakistan

Abstract

Tisstudy explores the main elements causing fooding in Pakistan’s Swabi area and fnds that elevation, slope, precipitation, and vicinity of rivers all play a major role in fooding occurrences. Low-lying areas, steeper slopes, intense monsoon rainfall, and proximity to rivers increase vulnerability to foods. Additional factors such as curvature, normalized diference vegetation index (NDVI), topographic wetness index (TWI), land use and land cover (LULC), and soil type exhibit comparatively less impact on fooding. Teevaluation of food risk incorporates nine factors through the AHP procedure, assigning weights that emphasize the importance of rainfall, slope, elevation, and distance to rivers using GIS software. Te resulting food hazard map categorizes the region into high-, moderate-, low-, and very low-risk zones, with approximately 49.42% identifed as high food risk areas. Evacuation planning designates secure zones, moderate-risk areas, and high-risk zones, emphasizing the need for fexible and adaptable routes in response to evolving food scenarios. Te study’s comprehensive approach, integrating GIS and AHP, provides valuable insights for efective food management in the Swabi district, despite limitations related to data quality. Te fndings contribute to resolving fooding issues and ofer a foundation for coordinated actions by authorities and communities in food prone areas.