Subject: Environment & Ecology

India's coastal vulnerability to tsunamis was starkly highlighted by the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, which led to comprehensive disaster management reforms and heightened preparedness measures.

Factors Responsible for Tsunami Occurrence

• Seismic Activity: The tsunami was triggered by a massive 9.1-9.3 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, at a depth of 30 km.

• Geological Displacement: The sudden vertical displacement of the ocean floor caused by tectonic plate movement.

• Ocean Basin Characteristics: The shallow continental shelf amplified the wave heights.

• Coastal Topography: Low-lying coastal areas increased vulnerability to inundation.

Effects on Life and Economy

Life Impact:

• Widespread loss of human lives and displacement of coastal communities.
• Destruction of coastal settlements and infrastructure.
• Disruption of essential services like water supply and healthcare.

Economic Impact:

• Total losses estimated at ₹3,000 crore.
• Severe damage to:
  • Fishing Industry: Major impact on livelihood of coastal communities.
  • Tourism Sector: Decline in coastal tourism activities.
  • Infrastructure: Damage to ports, roads, and coastal structures.

NDMA Guidelines (2010) for Risk Reduction

Early Warning Systems:

• Establishment of Indian Tsunami Early Warning System (ITEWS).
• Integration with Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).
• Development of real-time monitoring and warning dissemination systems.

Preparedness Mechanisms:

• Community-based disaster preparedness programs.
• Regular mock drills and evacuation exercises.
• Creation of tsunami-ready communities.

Structural Measures:

• Construction of tsunami shelters and evacuation routes.
• Development of coastal bio-shields.
• Implementation of coastal regulation zone guidelines.

The devastating 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami served as a wake-up call, leading to the establishment of robust disaster management frameworks like the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and NDMA Guidelines. Today, India's improved preparedness and early warning systems demonstrate our commitment to building coastal resilience against such natural disasters.