Seismic hazard assessment in Sikkim, India using MCDM models

Abstract Seismic hazard mapping is crucial for earthquake preparedness and mitigation, specifically in the Himalayan Belt. Because several factors must be evaluated throughout the evaluation process, it can be represented as a multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. In this study, we have applied the integrated Analytical Hierarchy Process-Entropy MCDM models to assess the seismic hazard in Sikkim, India. The findings of this study indicate that 43.20% of the total geographical area and 54.64% of the inhabitants reside under the high to very high seismic hazard level. The finding was validated using a receiver operating characteristic curve, showing an accuracy level of 64%, which is satisfactory. This work may be helpful for the government and disaster management agencies to prepare for destructive events that may occur in this belt of the Himalayas.