internet based

GIS has emerged as a very important tool for effective planning, communication, and training in the various stages of the disaster management cycle. The prime concern during any disaster is the availability of the spatial information, and the dissemination of this information to all concerned. Internet-based GIS can play a key role in this aspect by providing cost-effective information at various stages of the disaster life cycle, with a much wider reach. The following aspects have been covered: how Internet-based GIS can be used as a very effective tool for disaster management, in the various stages of the disaster management life cycle, some examples, the Indian perspective, and the SWOT analysis (strengths, limitations, opportunities and the risks) of using the Internet-based GIS for disaster management. Introduction: GIS as a powerful tool for Disaster ManagementAccess to information is crucial for the effective management of disasters. All those who are concerned with managing disasters necessarily have the need to access timely and accurate information. Normally, a considerable amount of money is spent on just finding the relevant information. This happens because the information is stored redundantly in several places and in several formats. Maps and spatial information are important components of the overall information in case of any disaster event (flood, earthquake, cyclone, landslide, wildfire, famine, and so forth). Hence mapping and spatial information acquisition becomes vital for any disaster management effort. In general, GIS can be used in any part of the disaster management cycle; namely disaster preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation. But one important need for any disaster management effort is to have the spatial information accessible to a larger group of people, in a fast, easy and cost-effective manner. The use of GIS on the web can help a lot in achieving these objectives.