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

Question

Acme IAS · Accepted Answer

Introduction

A landslide refers to the rapid downward movement of soil, rock, or debris along a slope under the direct influence of gravity. These events are highly prevalent in mountainous and hilly terrains, particularly during periods of intense monsoon rainfall, presenting a severe threat to human life, infrastructure, and ecological stability across India.

Body Analysis

Causes of Landslides

Natural Causes

Torrential Rainfall and Cloudbursts: Intense precipitation saturates the soil, increasing pore water pressure and reducing shear strength.
Seismic Activity: Earthquakes and tremors destabilize fragile slopes, triggering sudden mass movements.
Cryospheric Activity: Snowmelt and glacial movements lubricate rock joints, leading to instability.
Geological Factors: Steep slope gradients combined with weak, weathered, or fractured rock formations.

Anthropogenic (Human-Induced) Causes

Deforestation: Removal of vegetation cover deprives slopes of the binding action of root systems.
Unplanned Urbanization: Heavy construction and poorly designed infrastructure on fragile slopes increase load and instability.
Mining and Quarrying: Blasting and excavation activities weaken the structural integrity of hillsides.
Inadequate Drainage: Improper drainage systems and road-cutting activities disrupt natural water runoff, leading to slope saturation.

Effects of Landslides

Loss of Life and Property: Destroys settlements, causing high casualties and damage to assets.
Disruption of Infrastructure: Blocks critical transport corridors and communication networks, isolating remote areas.
Ecological Damage: Destroys agricultural lands, forests, and natural habitats.
River Blockages: Creates temporary landslide dams that can burst, causing catastrophic downstream flash floods.
Socio-Economic Impact: Leads to severe economic losses and forces the displacement of vulnerable communities.

National Landslide Risk Management Strategy – Key Components

Hazard Mapping and Zonation: Utilizing advanced geospatial tools and remote sensing to identify and classify landslide-susceptible zones.
Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Deploying real-time sensors, satellite monitoring, and meteorological data to issue timely alerts.
Awareness and Capacity Building: Conducting community-level training and educational programs to enhance local preparedness.
Regulation and Land-Use Planning: Enforcing strict building codes and restricting developmental activities in high-hazard zones.
Disaster Preparedness and Response: Formulating emergency response plans, training specialized rescue teams, and establishing rapid relief mechanisms.
Research and Development: Promoting scientific research to develop advanced prediction models and sustainable mitigation techniques.

Conclusion

Landslides remain a recurring hazard in India, especially across the Himalayan region and the Western Ghats. Addressing this challenge demands a holistic, multi-pronged approach as outlined in the National Strategy, integrating scientific mitigation, regulatory enforcement, and community resilience to safeguard vulnerable populations.

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

Model Answer