Geospatial Modelling of Seismic Vulnerability Using Entropy-AHP: A Case Study of the Himalayas

The Himalayan region is among the world's most seismically active regions, threatening human lives and infrastructure. As a result, seismic vulnerability mapping and assessment are critical for preparedness and reducing the impact of disasters. Vulnerability in a region may be influenced by various factors, which can be classified into structural, social, physical, and geotechnical domains. This study uses integrated entropy and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) multi-criteria decision-making models (MCDM) to evaluate seismic vulnerability in the subduction Himalayan region. The findings suggest that in terms of total area, over 38% is potentially vulnerable to high to very high seismic hazards, while over 66% of the total population is classified as highly vulnerable. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was developed as a means of validating the result, indicating satisfactory accuracy prediction. Entropy-AHP has an area under the curve of about 0.65. This research may help disaster management agencies mitigate and plan for seismic hazards in the Himalayan region.