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Landslide
Landslide
Almost every landslide has multiple causes. Slope movement occurs when
forces acting down-slope (mainly due to gravity) exceed the strength of the
earth materials that compose the slope. Causes include factors that increase the
effects of down-slope forces and factors that contribute to low or reduced
strength. Landslides can be initiated in slopes already on the verge of movement
by rainfall, snowmelt, changes in water level, stream erosion, changes in ground
water, earthquakes, volcanic activity, disturbance by human activities, or any
combination of these factors. Earthquake shaking and other factors can also
induce landslides underwater. These landslides are called submarine landslides.
Submarine landslides sometimes cause tsunamis that damage coastal areas.
MEASURES TO ADDRESS
LANDSLIDE RISK
The Government of India has taken several measures to address landslide
risks and improve disaster management in the country.
2. National Landslide Susceptibility Mapping: The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has
been conducting extensive surveys and mapping exercises to identify landslide-prone areas
across the country. The data collected is used to create landslide susceptibility maps, which
help in land use planning, infrastructure development, and risk mitigation strategies.
3. Early Warning Systems: The Indian government has been working on establishing early
warning systems for landslides in vulnerable regions. This includes deploying instruments
like rain gauges, ground-based radar, and monitoring stations to detect early warning signs.
Efforts are also being made to improve the dissemination of warnings through various
communication channels.
4. Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Programs: The government has implemented various
DRR programs aimed at reducing the vulnerability and risk associated with landslides. These
programs focus on capacity building, awareness campaigns, training, and community
participation to enhance preparedness and response capabilities at the grassroots level.
6. Land Use Planning and Regulations: The government has promoted land use planning
measures to prevent construction in high-risk landslide areas. This involves zoning
regulations, building codes, and guidelines for infrastructure development. Efforts are being
made to enforce these regulations strictly and discourage encroachments in vulnerable zones.
7. Capacity Building and Training: The government conducts training programs and
capacity-building initiatives for various stakeholders involved in disaster management,
including government officials, emergency responders, and community members. These
programs enhance knowledge and skills related to landslide risk assessment, early warning
systems, and emergency response.
It's worth noting that the effectiveness of these measures varies across different states and
regions in India. The implementation of policies and initiatives depends on the level of
coordination, resources, and local governance structures. Continued efforts are required to
strengthen landslide risk reduction strategies and enhance disaster management capabilities
throughout the country.
IMPACT OF LANDSLIDE ON
AFFECTED AREAS
The impacts of landslides on affected areas can be severe and wide-ranging.
Here are some common impacts of landslides:
1. Loss of Human Lives: Landslides can cause fatalities, leading to the loss of human lives.
The sudden and destructive nature of landslides leaves little time for escape, particularly in
densely populated areas.
6. Ecological Disruption: Landslides can disturb ecosystems and habitats, leading to the loss
of biodiversity and disruption of natural processes. They can trigger soil degradation, reduce
soil fertility, and contribute to the loss of valuable land for agriculture and forestry.
7. Social and Psychological Impacts: Landslides can have long-lasting social and
psychological impacts on affected communities. Survivors may experience trauma, anxiety,
and grief due to the loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods. Community cohesion can also be
affected as people grapple with the aftermath of a disaster.
8. Increased Vulnerability: Landslides can exacerbate the vulnerability of already
marginalized communities and individuals. Poverty, lack of resources, inadequate
infrastructure, and limited access to information and services can amplify the impacts of
landslides, making recovery and rebuilding efforts more challenging.
It's important to note that the severity of these impacts can vary depending on the scale,
intensity, and location of the landslide event, as well as the resilience and preparedness of the
affected communities. Effective disaster management, early warning systems, and proactive
mitigation measures can help reduce these impacts and enhance resilience in landslide-prone
areas.
Case studies: landslide events in past 10
years.
India has experienced several significant landslide events in the past 10
years.
Here are some notable instances:
1. Uttarakhand Landslides (2013): In June 2013, Uttarakhand, particularly the Kedarnath
region, witnessed severe landslides and flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall. The disaster
resulted in widespread devastation, loss of thousands of lives, and significant damage to
infrastructure.
2. Malin Landslide (2014): In July 2014, a massive landslide occurred in the village of
Malin in Maharashtra's Pune district. The landslide engulfed the village, burying numerous
houses and leading to the loss of over 150 lives.
3. Manipur Landslides (2015): In August 2015, multiple landslides struck several areas in
Manipur, particularly in Chandel district. The landslides were triggered by heavy rains and
resulted in numerous fatalities and the displacement of a large number of people.
4. Tawang Landslide (2016): In April 2016, a major landslide occurred near Tawang in
Arunachal Pradesh. The landslide blocked the flow of the River Tawang Chu and created an
artificial lake, posing a significant threat to downstream areas. Prompt mitigation efforts
prevented a potential disaster.
5. Himachal Pradesh Landslides (2017): In August 2017, heavy rainfall triggered landslides
in various parts of Himachal Pradesh, including Mandi and Shimla districts. These landslides
resulted in the loss of several lives and caused damage to infrastructure and road networks.
6. Kerala Landslides (2018): In August 2018, heavy monsoon rains led to widespread
landslides in the hilly regions of Kerala. The districts of Idukki, Wayanad, and Malappuram
were severely affected, resulting in significant casualties and destruction of homes and
infrastructure.
7. Kodagu Landslides (2018): In August 2018, Kodagu district in Karnataka experienced
devastating landslides triggered by incessant rainfall. The landslides caused considerable
damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human lives.
8. Nilgiris Landslides (2019): In November 2019, the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu
witnessed multiple landslides following heavy rains. These landslides resulted in loss of lives,
damage to property, and disruption of road connectivity.
It's worth noting that landslides can occur in various other regions of India as well, depending
on local geological and climatic conditions. The frequency and intensity of landslides are
often influenced by monsoonal rainfall, steep slopes, deforestation, and human activities in
landslide-prone areas.
Disaster management strategies for
landslide.
Landslides can be devastating natural disasters that pose significant risks
to human lives, infrastructure, and the environment. Effective disaster
management strategies for landslides involve a combination of
preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts.
2. Early Warning Systems: Establishing effective early warning systems is essential to alert
communities about imminent landslides. This may involve deploying sensors and monitoring
stations in vulnerable areas, implementing real-time data collection and analysis, and
disseminating timely warnings through multiple channels such as sirens, text messages, and
social media.
3. Land Use Planning and Regulation: Implementing land use planning measures can help
prevent construction in high-risk landslide areas. This includes zoning regulations, building
codes, and guidelines for infrastructure development. Strict enforcement of these regulations
can reduce vulnerability and exposure to landslides.
4. Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about landslides is vital to
ensure individuals understand the risks, recognize warning signs, and know how to respond
during an emergency. Conducting public education campaigns, distributing informational
materials, and organizing community drills or exercises can help disseminate crucial
information.
7. Search and Rescue Operations: Coordinated search and rescue efforts are critical to
locating and rescuing individuals affected by landslides. This involves deploying trained
personnel, specialized equipment, and leveraging technology such as drones and satellite
imagery to locate survivors and provide immediate assistance.
8. Post-Disaster Recovery: After a landslide event, the focus shifts to recovery and
rehabilitation. This includes assessing damage, restoring critical infrastructure, providing
medical assistance, and offering psychological support to affected individuals. Implementing
measures to prevent future landslides, such as slope stabilization and reforestation, are also
important components of the recovery process.
It's important to note that disaster management practices may vary depending on the
geographical location, local regulations, available resources, and the specific characteristics
of the landslide-prone area. Authorities, emergency management agencies, and community
stakeholders should work together to develop comprehensive disaster management plans
tailored to their specific circumstances.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Bibliography - Contents (nidm.gov.in).
2. Landslide in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang kills 16 | India News,The Indian
Express
3. Manipur: 21 dead in landslide; flood declared by state government |
India.com
4. Malin landslide in Pune, India: a mass fatality mudslide yesterday - The
Landslide Blog - AGU Blogosphere
5. Landslides in India and its impacts- Explained, pointwise -ForumIAS Blog
6. Landslide: Do's & Dont's | NDMA, GoI
7. [Disaster Series] Landslides in India and its Management | UPSC Notes -
IAS EXPRESS
8. Landslide Hazard Do's and Dont's (gsi.gov.in)