Natural Hazards in India’s Mountain Regions: Analyzing Risks, Impacts, and Resilience Strategies
Assigned Session: FS 3.502: Natural hazards in mountainous regions – Introduction to the different types of natural hazards common in mountain regions
Abstract ID: 3.10914 | Not reviewed | Requested as: Talk | TBA | TBA
Saurabh Krishnan (1)
(1) JAWAHARLAL NEHRU UNIVERSITY, 243 KAVERI HOSTEL, 110067 NEW DELHI, IN
Abstract
Mountain regions are highly susceptible to various natural hazards due to their complex topography, fragile ecosystems, and dynamic climatic conditions. India’s mountainous regions, particularly the Himalayas, experience a range of natural disasters, including landslides, earthquakes, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), avalanches, and extreme weather events. These hazards pose significant threats to human settlements, infrastructure, and biodiversity, necessitating a comprehensive understanding and effective mitigation strategies. This paper provides an overview of different types of natural hazards in the mountain regions of India, with a specific focus on the Himalayas. The study is based on an extensive review of historical disaster data, remote sensing analysis, and field observations. Statistical data from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Geological Survey of India (GSI) indicate that over 15% of India’s total land area is prone to landslides, with states like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh being the most vulnerable. In recent decades, seismic records show that the Himalayan region experiences frequent earthquakes, with magnitudes often exceeding 6.0 on the Richter scale. Additionally, climate change has intensified glacial retreat, leading to an increase in the frequency of GLOFs. The study highlights key factors contributing to the occurrence of natural hazards, including deforestation, unplanned urbanization, and climate change. Case studies from recent disasters, such as the Kedarnath floods of 2013 and the Chamoli glacier burst in 2021, provide insights into the socio-economic and environmental consequences of these events. The research further evaluates the effectiveness of early warning systems, disaster preparedness measures, and community-based risk management strategies. Findings suggest that integrating scientific research with traditional knowledge and adopting NBS can significantly enhance resilience against natural hazards in mountain regions. Policy recommendations include strengthening land-use planning, investing in resilient infrastructure, and enhancing cross-border cooperation for transboundary hazard management. It provides for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of natural hazards in India’s mountainous regions. By understanding the patterns, causes, and consequences of these hazards, policymakers, researchers, and local communities can work together to develop sustainable strategies for disaster risk reduction.
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