CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Recent research has highlighted the vulnerability of the Alaknanda River to landslide-induced natural dams. A comprehensive study by IIT Roorkee researchers Shivani Joshi and Srikrishnan Siva Subramanian, titled ‘Landslide Dam Studies in Uttarakhand, India – Past, Present, and Future’, identifies the Alaknanda River as the most susceptible in the Garhwal region. The study, published by Springer, attributes this vulnerability to the unique topography of Uttarakhand, which is characterized by narrow valleys and deep gorges.
About Landslide Lake Outburst Floods (LLOFs)
Landslide Lake Outburst Floods (LLOFs) occur when landslides block a river or valley, forming a natural dam. The resulting impoundment creates a lake, which eventually overflows, releasing large volumes of water that can cause devastating floods downstream. These events are triggered by factors such as unstable slopes, heavy rainfall, seismic activity, and climate change. The study suggests that climate change has intensified the occurrence of landslide dams in the higher Himalayas.
Geographic Impact Of Landslide Dams
The study found that Chamoli district in Uttarakhand is the most affected by landslide dams, followed by Rudraprayag and Uttarkashi. All three of these districts are located in the Garhwal region. The Gohna Tal incident in Chamoli, which began in 1893, stands out as one of the most severe cases of landslide damming. Gohna Lake partially breached in 1894 and completely in 1970, sending floods downstream as far as Haridwar.
Historical Trends And Context
Landslide dam formations in the region have been occurring since the Last Glacial Maximum, roughly 29,000 to 19,000 years ago. Notable events have been recorded since the 19th century, with the peak month for these occurrences being August, coinciding with the monsoon season. Recent years have seen a rise in such incidents, influenced by climate change, deforestation, and human activities like road construction, all of which have altered the landscape and increased the risk of landslides.
Challenges In Disaster Management
Although major incidents have been fewer since 2018, the instability of natural dams remains unpredictable, posing significant challenges for disaster management. The study stresses the importance of preparedness to address potential risks. Heavy rainfall and cloudbursts are common triggers for landslides, with debris slides being the most frequent cause of river blockages in Uttarakhand.
Future Considerations For Uttarakhand
Given the increasing risks posed by landslide dams and the impacts of climate change, the study underscores the urgent need for effective disaster management strategies in Uttarakhand. Enhanced monitoring systems and better preparedness are critical to protect local communities from the dangers of potential flood events. Understanding the dynamics of landslide dams and implementing proactive measures will be key in minimizing future risks.
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