Q14. “The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides.”Discuss the causes and suggest suitable measures of mitigation.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The Himalayas, known for their majestic peaks and unique biodiversity, are also highly susceptible to landslides. This vulnerability poses significant risks to the local population, infrastructure, and environment. Understanding the causes of landslides in the Himalayas is essential for developing effective mitigation strategies to reduce their impact.

Body

Causes of Landslides in the Himalayas:

• Geological Factors: The Himalayas are primarily composed of young, loose sedimentary rocks and fragile geological formations. The tectonic activity resulting from the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates contributes to frequent earth movements, making the region inherently unstable.
• Heavy Rainfall: The monsoon season brings intense and prolonged rainfall, saturating the soil and increasing its weight. This excess water reduces the cohesion of soil particles, leading to landslides. In recent years, climate change has intensified rainfall patterns, exacerbating the landslide risk.
• Human Activities: Deforestation for agriculture, urbanisation, and infrastructure development destabilised the soil. Removal of vegetation reduces the soil’s natural strength and drainage capacity, making it more prone to erosion and landslides. Construction activities often disturb the natural slope, further increasing susceptibility.
• Seismic Activity: The region experiences frequent earthquakes, which can trigger landslides. The seismic forces disrupt the stability of slopes, particularly in areas already weakened by rainfall or human activities.

Measures of Mitigation:

• Reforestation: Planting trees and restoring vegetation on slopes can help stabilise the soil by increasing root strength and reducing surface runoff. Community-based reforestation projects can empower local populations and enhance environmental resilience.
• Improved Land Use Planning: Developing and enforcing regulations that limit construction in high-risk areas is essential. Zoning laws should prioritise the preservation of critical ecosystems and natural landscapes to minimise human-induced landslide risks.
• Engineering Solutions: Constructing retaining walls, drainage systems, and terracing can effectively manage water runoff and stabilise slopes. Engineers can design infrastructure that adapts to the unique geological conditions of the Himalayas.
• Early Warning Systems: Implementing technology-based monitoring and early warning systems can help communities prepare for impending landslides. These systems can track rainfall patterns, soil moisture levels, and seismic activity, providing critical information for timely evacuation and response.

Conclusion:

The Himalayas face significant landslide risks due to a combination of natural and anthropogenic factors. By understanding these causes and implementing effective mitigation measures, including reforestation, improved land use planning, engineering solutions, and early warning systems, the impact of landslides can be significantly reduced. A proactive approach to managing these risks is essential for safeguarding both the environment and the livelihoods of local communities in this vulnerable region.

‍

Instant Mains Evaluation with SuperKalam

‍