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The recent avalanche in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, which trapped at least 25 Border Roads Organisation (BRO) workers, highlights the ever-present danger of natural disasters in the Himalayan region and the critical role of predictive warnings. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Defence Geoinformatics Research Establishment (DGRE), had issued yellow and red alerts for the possibility of avalanches in the region in the days leading up to the incident, underscoring the organization's efforts to monitor and mitigate such risks. This incident, occurring near the border village of Mana, underscores the vulnerability of infrastructure and personnel operating in these remote and challenging environments. Rescue operations are currently underway, involving a coordinated effort from the BRO, Army, Air Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), and state government agencies. The inclement weather conditions continue to pose a significant challenge to the rescue efforts, further complicating the situation and emphasizing the need for specialized equipment and expertise. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of avalanches and the potential for devastating consequences, requiring a multi-faceted approach to risk management and disaster preparedness. The Himalayan region, known for its towering peaks and heavy snowfall, is particularly susceptible to avalanches, which are essentially snow equivalents of landslides. These natural phenomena are triggered by a complex interplay of geological and environmental factors, including increased precipitation, excessive snow load, temperature differentials within the snowpack, weakening of the snowpack, storms, earthquakes, and even human activities that cause vibrations, such as heavy machinery or construction. The article astutely points out that avalanches can occur on any snow-clad slope at any time of year, although they are more frequent during late winter and spring when melting and instability are more pronounced. The Chamoli region has experienced several major avalanche events in recent years, underscoring the need for increased vigilance and preventative measures. The February 2021 deadly ice-rock mass avalanche, which claimed the lives of over 200 people, serves as a harrowing reminder of the potential scale of destruction. Analysis of the 2021 event by scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology revealed that the region was seismically active before the disaster, with the gradual growth of cracks near the crown of the weak wedge, eventually leading to the detachment of a massive rock-ice mass. This finding highlights the importance of continuous seismic monitoring as a crucial component of early warning systems. Other recent incidents include the October 2022 avalanche that killed 16 people, including trainee mountaineers, and the April 2021 avalanche triggered by a glacier breaking close to the India-China border, which resulted in several fatalities and the rescue of hundreds of individuals. These events underscore the frequency with which avalanches occur in the region and the diverse range of activities that can place people at risk, from construction and infrastructure maintenance to mountaineering and recreational pursuits. The article further highlights similar incidents in other parts of the Himalayas, including Gulmarg in Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Siachen Glacier. The 2016 Siachen Glacier avalanche, which trapped 10 soldiers under deep snow, captivated public attention and provided a sobering insight into the effects of being buried under snow. The remarkable survival of Lance Naik Hanumanthappa Koppad, who was rescued alive after six days buried 35 feet beneath the snow, offered a brief moment of hope, but his subsequent death due to multi-organ failure underscored the extreme physiological challenges faced by those trapped in such conditions. The Siachen incident emphasized the harsh realities of military operations at high altitudes and the need for specialized training, equipment, and rescue capabilities. Geology and meteorology experts emphasize that global warming and climate change are exacerbating the risk of avalanches and landslides in the Himalayas. Retreating glaciers, increased meltwater, and unstable slopes are making the region more susceptible to these natural disasters, which can be triggered by rainfall, temperature variations, or induced seismicity. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of constant monitoring of seismicity and glacier status, emphasizing that all mountain ranges that receive heavy snowfall are prone to avalanches. The DGRE and its predecessor, the Snow and Avalanche Studies Establishment, play a vital role in monitoring snow cover and mountain meteorology to assist military operations in the Himalayas, and this research also has significant benefits for the civilian population. Avalanche-prone sites have been mapped, and technology has been developed to forecast the possibility of avalanches and to mitigate such incidents through the construction of control structures or artificial triggering.
The importance of predictive alerts and mitigation strategies cannot be overstated. The DRDO's ability to issue warnings, as demonstrated in the recent Chamoli incident, provides a crucial window of opportunity for evacuation and preventive measures. While the warnings did not prevent the avalanche from occurring, they likely helped to minimize the potential loss of life and provided valuable information for rescue efforts. The development of technology for avalanche forecasting and mitigation is a continuous process, requiring ongoing research and refinement. Factors such as snowpack stability, weather patterns, and terrain characteristics must be carefully analyzed to improve the accuracy and reliability of forecasts. Mitigation strategies, such as the construction of control structures like snow fences and retaining walls, can help to reduce the risk of avalanches in vulnerable areas. Artificial triggering, which involves the controlled release of avalanches using explosives or other methods, can also be an effective way to prevent the buildup of dangerous snow loads. These techniques require specialized expertise and careful planning, and they must be implemented in a manner that minimizes the risk to people and property. Beyond avalanches, the article also acknowledges the broader challenges posed by landslides in mountainous regions. Landslides, often triggered by cloudbursts, heavy rain, or seismic activity, can block the flow of rivers and form artificial lakes that are susceptible to bursting and causing floods downstream. These cascading hazards pose a significant threat to communities and infrastructure in mountainous areas, requiring a holistic approach to risk management that considers the interconnectedness of different natural processes. Effective disaster preparedness requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government agencies, local communities, and research institutions. Early warning systems, evacuation plans, and public awareness campaigns are essential for reducing the vulnerability of populations at risk. Investment in infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of natural disasters, such as roads, bridges, and buildings, is also crucial. Furthermore, sustainable land management practices can help to reduce the risk of landslides and other natural hazards. Deforestation, for example, can destabilize slopes and increase the likelihood of landslides. Promoting reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices can help to protect the environment and reduce the risk of natural disasters. Education and training are also essential components of disaster preparedness. Communities need to be educated about the risks they face and trained in how to respond to natural disasters. This includes knowing how to evacuate safely, how to provide first aid, and how to access emergency services. By empowering communities with knowledge and skills, we can help them to become more resilient in the face of natural disasters.
The long-term effects of climate change on the Himalayan region are a cause for serious concern. As temperatures rise, glaciers are melting at an accelerating rate, leading to increased meltwater runoff and unstable slopes. This, in turn, increases the risk of avalanches, landslides, and floods. The impact of climate change on the Himalayan region is not limited to natural disasters. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns are also affecting agriculture, water resources, and biodiversity. These changes have the potential to disrupt livelihoods, displace communities, and exacerbate social and economic inequalities. Addressing the challenges posed by climate change requires a global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Developed countries need to take the lead in reducing their emissions and providing financial and technological support to developing countries to help them transition to low-carbon economies. Furthermore, adaptation measures are needed to help communities in the Himalayan region cope with the impacts of climate change. This includes investing in infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change, promoting sustainable land management practices, and developing early warning systems for natural disasters. The challenges facing the Himalayan region are complex and multifaceted, but they are not insurmountable. By working together, governments, communities, and research institutions can develop and implement effective strategies to reduce the risk of natural disasters and build a more sustainable future for the region. The recent avalanche in Chamoli serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and mitigation. It highlights the need for continued investment in early warning systems, rescue capabilities, and sustainable land management practices. It also underscores the urgent need to address the underlying drivers of climate change that are exacerbating the risk of natural disasters in the Himalayan region. As we move forward, it is essential that we learn from past experiences and work together to build a more resilient and sustainable future for the people and environment of the Himalayas. The incident also reinforces the critical role of organizations like the DRDO in monitoring and mitigating natural disasters. Their expertise in forecasting avalanches and other hazards is essential for protecting communities and infrastructure in vulnerable areas. By continuing to invest in research and development, we can improve our ability to predict and respond to natural disasters, saving lives and minimizing the economic and social impacts. The challenges facing the Himalayan region are a microcosm of the global challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters. By working together to address these challenges, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
Source: DRDO had issued yellow alert over past two days for possibility of avalanches in Uttarakhand