Q. Describe the various causes and the effects of landslides. Mention the important components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy.

Model Answer: 

Causes and Effects of Landslides: National Landslide Risk Management Strategy

Landslides are significant geological hazards that pose substantial risks to life, property, and infrastructure in many parts of India, particularly in mountainous and hilly regions. These mass movements of rock, debris, or earth down a slope occur due to various natural and anthropogenic factors.

Causes of Landslides:

• Geological factors: Weak or fractured rock materials, unfavorable layering of rocks (e.g., Himalayan region)
• Morphological factors: Steep slope angles, aspects influencing weathering
• Physical triggers:
– Intense rainfall (e.g., Uttarakhand floods 2013)
– Rapid snowmelt
– Seismic activities (e.g., Nepal earthquake 2015)
• Human activities:
– Deforestation
– Unplanned construction (e.g., hill station developments)
– Mining and quarrying
• Climate change impacts: Altered precipitation patterns and extreme weather events

Effects of Landslides:

• Loss of human lives and property damage
• Destruction of critical infrastructure:
– Roads and highways (e.g., Himalayan highways)
– Buildings and utilities
• Economic losses:
– Agricultural land degradation
– Disruption of tourism (e.g., Mussoorie, Nainital)
• Environmental impacts:
– Altered landscapes and drainage patterns
– Biodiversity loss in affected areas
• Social disruption:
– Displacement of communities
– Loss of livelihoods and cultural heritage

To address these challenges, India has developed the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy (NLRMS). Key components include:

1. Hazard mapping and zonation: Identification and classification of landslide-prone areas

2. Early warning systems: Implementation of monitoring networks and forecasting models

3. Capacity building: Training programs for professionals and local authorities

4. Research and development: Promoting innovative technologies for landslide mitigation

5. Land use planning: Developing and enforcing regulations for construction in vulnerable areas

6. Community awareness: Educating local populations on landslide risks and preparedness measures

Conclusion: The NLRMS provides a comprehensive framework to mitigate landslide risks, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in research, planning, and community engagement.