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Flooding in urban areas is an emerging climate-induced disaster. Discuss the causes of this disaster. Mention the features of two such major floods in the last two decades in India. Describe the policies and frameworks in India that aim at tackling such floods. (Answer in 250 words) [UPSC 2024]
Model Answer Causes of Urban Flooding Urban flooding in India is primarily driven by several interrelated factors: Increased Frequency of Extreme Rainfall: Climate change has led to more intense rainfall events, overwhelming existing drainage systems. For instance, Chennai faced severe flooding in NRead more
Model Answer
Causes of Urban Flooding
Urban flooding in India is primarily driven by several interrelated factors:
Major Flood Events
Mumbai Floods 2005
In July 2005, Mumbai experienced 944 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours, leading to widespread flooding, loss of life, and significant infrastructure disruption. This event highlighted the city’s inadequate drainage capacity.
Kerala Floods 2018
August 2018 saw catastrophic flooding in Kerala, attributed to extreme rainfall classified as a large excess by the IMD. This event displaced over a million people and caused extensive damage.
Policies and Frameworks
India has implemented several policies to tackle urban flooding:
By addressing the root causes through comprehensive policies and sustainable urban development, India can better mitigate the impacts of urban flooding.
See lessWhat is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030). (Answer in 250 words) [UPSC 2024]
Model Answer Introduction Disaster resilience refers to the capacity of communities, systems, and nations to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, thereby minimizing their impacts on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. It encompasses a comprehensive approach that integRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Disaster resilience refers to the capacity of communities, systems, and nations to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, thereby minimizing their impacts on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. It encompasses a comprehensive approach that integrates preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation strategies.
How is Disaster Resilience Determined?
Disaster resilience is determined through several key factors:
Elements of a Resilience Framework
Key elements of a resilience framework include:
Global Targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030)
The Sendai Framework outlines several global targets to enhance disaster resilience:
Conclusion
Strengthening disaster resilience is an ongoing process that requires innovation, international collaboration, and a commitment to integrating disaster risk reduction into all aspects of societal development.
See lessWays To manage after effects of Disasters.
1. Safety and Instant Needs Assess and Address Instant Risks: Lead the affected population away from supplementary safety risks brought on by earthquake aftershocks and fires as well as toxic water contamination. Meet the Basic Needs: The emergency responses need to fulfill all victim demands includRead more
1. Safety and Instant Needs
Assess and Address Instant Risks: Lead the affected population away from supplementary safety risks brought on by earthquake aftershocks and fires as well as toxic water contamination.
Meet the Basic Needs: The emergency responses need to fulfill all victim demands including food supplies and clean water and appropriate shelter facilities along with medical services. The operation includes setting up temporary structures with protective materials alongside medical assistance distribution.
2. Psychological and Emotional Care
Trauma Counseling: Supportive psychological services combined with emotional support for families who suffered from the disaster. Through counseling services and support groups people can achieve stress management skills.
Child-Friendly Support: The child must receive proper support so they can handle stressful emotions alongside their persistent fear and confusion.
3. Restoration of Infrastructure and Services:
Restoration of critical infrastructure: Electricity, water, sanitation, and transport
The reconstruction should begin for homes and hospitals and educational facilities. Economic Recovery:
Support Livelihoods: Organizations which provide financial support should assist both businesses and individuals whose livelihoods were affected by the hurricane. The community needs both economic help in addition to work training support and credit access points.
Agricultural Recovery: Supported agricultural communities can recover from farms losses to rebuild their way of life.
5. Long-Term Recovery and Resilience Building:
Disaster Risk Reduction: Future disaster events become less damaging for communities through effective measures that enhance early warning systems together with robust infrastructure systems and encourage sustainable land use management approaches.
Community-Based Recovery: Through this system local communities must gain the ability to actively participate in rebuilding themselves after disasters occur.
Building Back Better: Through disaster risk reduction measures integrated into reconstruction efforts recovery provides an opportunity to construct better than before. Important Considerations:
Inclusivity: All vulnerable population groups require specific segments in recovery programs including women children those with disabilities and poverty-affected individuals.
Sustainability: Sustainable recovery initiatives should incorporate environmental conservation practices to generate enhanced resilience across the long term.
Community participation: Involvement of the affected communities in all stages of the recovery process will ensure their voice is heard and their needs are met.
See lessWhat are the key principles and practices that contribute to effective disaster preparedness and response strategies?
1. Risk Assessment and Planning: Hazard Identification-Helpful identification of possible hazards prevailing in a specified area, whether earth quakes floods, cyclone, or a severe drought. Vulnerability Analysis - Assessing possibly the impact hazards may have upon people, on infrastructure, or possRead more
1. Risk Assessment and Planning: Hazard Identification-Helpful identification of possible hazards prevailing in a specified area, whether earth quakes floods, cyclone, or a severe drought. Vulnerability Analysis – Assessing possibly the impact hazards may have upon people, on infrastructure, or possibly affecting the environment such as vulnerable individuals, the elders, children with disabilities, etc., and especially those living on poverty lines.
-Capacity Assessment: This is the evaluation of the resources and capabilities existing in the community to respond to the event of a disaster.
2. Early Warning Systems:
-Proper Communication: Developing trustworthy and prompt early warning systems that could be accessed by all residents or in isolated or marginalized areas.
-Community-Based Early Warning Systems: Involving local communities in the development or operationalization of early warning systems, empowering them to be proactive.
3. Community Engagement:
-Community Preparedness Plans: These include the devising and use of community-based disaster preparedness plans that get all stakeholders; including government organizations, non-governmental organizations and the public themselves.
Training/Education: Performing training and educating community members through frequent training as well as public education programs on aspects of disaster preparedness, first aid, emergency response procedures.
Community-Based Disaster Management: Taking responsibility for self-empowered disaster preparedness, responding and recovery locally 4.Resource Allocation and Coordination:
-Adequate Resources: It should be adequately provided with the necessary financial, human, and material resources to prepare for and respond to disasters.
-Effective Coordination: Well-defined lines of communication and coordination among all stakeholders in disaster management, from government agencies and non-governmental organizations to community groups.
5. Technology and Innovation:
-Early Warning Technologies: Utilization of sophisticated technologies such as satellite imagery, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence in the improvement of early warning systems.
-Information and Communication Technologies: This can be made use of in information and communication technologies to expedite the transmission of information, resource mobilization, and coordination of a disaster.
6. Inclusive and Equitable Response:
-Assuring the Requirements of Vulnerable Groups: It must ensure that disaster response efforts are integrated in nature and focused on special needs of the vulnerable groups-women, children, people with disabilities, and the poor.
-Building Back Better: Utilize disaster recovery efforts in building back better, with provisions for disaster risk reduction in rebuilding.
See lessCritically analyze the socio-economic impacts of disasters on vulnerable populations in India. What measures should be implemented to ensure inclusive disaster preparedness and recovery efforts that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities?
Socio-economic Impact: Loss of Livelihoods. Home destruction and business ruin alongside farm destruction creates major income loss that drives vulnerable populations toward economic ruination. Food Insecurity. Food shortages emerge because of disrupted agriculture production and broken supply chainRead more
Socio-economic Impact:
Loss of Livelihoods. Home destruction and business ruin alongside farm destruction creates major income loss that drives vulnerable populations toward economic ruination.
Food Insecurity. Food shortages emerge because of disrupted agriculture production and broken supply chains while market instability drives up foodstuff prices hurting people who already struggle to feed themselves.
– Health Effects: Disasters create advanced health deterioration while also allowing infectious diseases to move across affected areas. Most people who become disaster victims start with multiple vulnerabilities and experience minimal access to healthcare services.
– Displacement and Migration: During disasters people experience forced evacuations which leads to population displacement and migration. Communities become disrupted through this process which also-cnills existing livelihood systems.
The disaster-affected regions now face risks because they became exposed to exploitation. Various forms of exploitation extend beyond classical boundaries to encompass human trafficking and child labor and gender-based violence together with numerous additional issues.
Measures for Inclusive Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
The implementation of Risk Assessment serves with Early Warning Systems provides a basis for protective action. Social services should perform hazard evaluations which emphasize specific risk conditions affecting vulnerable populations. Every part of the community’s remote and marginalized locations needs accessible early warning systems.
Community-Based Disaster Management: ΟΣystematic approach to disaster planning and execution must enable marginalized communities to lead their preparation activities across all stages. Team members will receive instruction for offering first aid and implementing search and rescue techniques together with learning to operate early warning systems within their communities.
The relief and rehabilitation programs must integrate inclusivity through tailoring their reliefs toward their specific marginalized audiences. Special relief packages should target three groups: women, children, and people who are disabled as well as tribals.
A combination of expanded social safety insurance with food security systems along with income and health support helps people survive disasters.
Investing in long-term resilience initiatives that strengthen infrastructure combined with sustainable income programs and strengthen traditional community systems will minimize disaster vulnerability for vulnerable communities.
See lessAlthough the littoral states of the Bay of Bengal have made considerable progress in disaster preparedness, their effectiveness has been constrained. Discuss.
Model Answer Steps Taken by Littoral States The littoral states of the Bay of Bengal—India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand—have made considerable progress in disaster preparedness, focusing on key strategies to mitigate natural disaster impacts. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR):Read more
Model Answer
Steps Taken by Littoral States
The littoral states of the Bay of Bengal—India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand—have made considerable progress in disaster preparedness, focusing on key strategies to mitigate natural disaster impacts.
Challenges Limiting Effectiveness
Despite these efforts, the disaster preparedness in the Bay of Bengal region remains limited due to several constraints.
Conclusion
Despite substantial progress, a comprehensive, multi-state disaster relief authority could strengthen the region’s ability to effectively manage and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters.
See lessWhat role does the media play in disaster management in India?
Model Answer Positive Role of Media Information Dissemination: The media ensures timely and accurate information reaches the public, helping them make informed decisions and stay safe. For example, during the Kerala floods in 2018, nearly all news channels in the state provided continuous 24/7 coverRead more
Model Answer
Positive Role of Media
Negative Role of Media
In conclusion, while media plays an essential role in disaster management in India, ethical practices and coordination with disaster management agencies are crucial for enhancing its effectiveness.
See lessWhat are the factors that make India prone to flood-related hazards? Analyze the causes of flood disasters in different regions of India with appropriate examples. ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction India is highly vulnerable to flood-related hazards due to several natural and human-induced factors. Over 40 million hectares (mha) of India's total 329 mha geographical area are flood-prone. On average, floods affect 75 lakh hectares annually, resulting in the loss of 160Read more
Model Answer
Introduction
India is highly vulnerable to flood-related hazards due to several natural and human-induced factors. Over 40 million hectares (mha) of India’s total 329 mha geographical area are flood-prone. On average, floods affect 75 lakh hectares annually, resulting in the loss of 1600 lives and damages worth Rs. 1805 crores. Below are the key factors contributing to India’s flood vulnerability:
1. Monsoon Rainfall
India receives 70%-90% of its annual rainfall during the monsoon season, leading to excessive rainfall and flooding in many regions. This intense rainfall often overwhelms existing drainage systems and causes river systems to overflow.
2. Himalayan River Systems
The Ganges, Brahmaputra, and their tributaries frequently experience extensive flooding due to factors like heavy sediment load, glacial melt, and monsoon rainfall. These rivers carry a massive volume of water during the rainy season, leading to floods in the lowland areas.
3. Long Coastline
With a 7500 km coastline, India is highly susceptible to tropical cyclones originating from the North Indian Ocean. The Chennai floods in December 2023, triggered by Cyclone Michaung, highlight the vulnerability of coastal cities to storm surges and heavy rains.
4. Climate Change
Climate change has caused increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, exacerbating the risk of floods. In regions like the Himalayas, there is a noticeable increase in the intensity of rainfall within shorter periods, which leads to flash floods.
Causes of Flood-Related Disasters in India
1. Unregulated Development
Poor adherence to building and environmental regulations, particularly in hilly terrains, has contributed to flood disasters. For instance, unregulated construction on the Song riverbed led to the Dehradun floods in 2022.
2. Unplanned Urbanization
Unplanned construction on floodplains and wetlands has reduced the natural absorption capacity of the land, aggravating flood risks. The 2023 Delhi floods were a direct consequence of encroachment on the Yamuna floodplains.
3. Deforestation
Deforestation for mining, roads, and tourism increases soil erosion and runoff, contributing to flooding. The floods in Karnataka and Kerala in 2019 were partly caused by deforestation in the Western Ghats.
4. Dam Construction
The construction of hydropower projects in the Himalayan region has intensified floods. The Uttarakhand floods in 2013 and the Sikkim floods in 2023 were aggravated by dam-related issues, including the release of excess water and poor planning.
Conclusion
Addressing India’s vulnerability to floods requires a multifaceted approach, including better urban planning, reforestation, improved drainage infrastructure, and effective river management. Steps to mitigate climate change effects are also crucial in reducing future flood risks.
See lessDiscuss the reasons behind the frequent occurrences of stampedes at public places in India. What measures can be taken to prevent such incidents?( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction Stampedes are tragic incidents resulting from a sudden, uncontrollable movement of people, often causing injuries or fatalities. The frequent occurrences of stampedes at public places in India can be attributed to several causes: 1. Structural Factors: Temporary structures,Read more
Model Answer
Introduction
Stampedes are tragic incidents resulting from a sudden, uncontrollable movement of people, often causing injuries or fatalities. The frequent occurrences of stampedes at public places in India can be attributed to several causes:
1. Structural Factors:
Temporary structures, such as barricades or makeshift bridges, often collapse under the pressure of large crowds. A prime example is the 2013 stampede near Ratangarh Mata Temple in Madhya Pradesh, where a collapsing bridge caused several deaths.
2. Fire Hazards:
Fires caused by short circuits or electricity failure create panic among large crowds, leading to a stampede. The Dabwali fire incident in Haryana (1995) serves as a tragic example, where 446 people lost their lives due to a fire-induced stampede.
3. Excessive Crowd:
Mass gatherings, particularly at religious events or political rallies, are a significant cause of stampedes. According to a study, 79% of stampedes in India between 1954 and 2012 occurred during religious mass gatherings, where crowd management becomes a significant challenge.
4. Lack of Coordination:
Inadequate coordination between different agencies, such as the police, administration, and fire services, exacerbates the risk of stampedes. This lack of coordination can result in delayed responses to crowd surges or emergency situations.
Measures to Prevent Stampedes
1. Better Design of Spaces for Mass Gatherings:
Designing spaces with multiple wide exits, fire safety systems, adequate ventilation, and crowd segregation can significantly reduce the risk of stampedes.
2. Live Crowd Surveillance:
Real-time monitoring of crowds using advanced technology, such as AI-based CCTV coverage and drones, can help detect pressure build-up and potential hazards. For example, during the 2024 Jagannath Rath Yatra, Odisha Police used AI-based surveillance to manage crowd density effectively.
3. Improved Communication and Coordination:
Establishing a clear communication system and allocating responsibilities among all agencies involved in crowd management can help prevent panic and ensure swift action during emergencies.
Conclusion
Preventing stampedes requires a multi-disciplinary approach, including better planning, design, and technological solutions. By addressing structural, coordination, and crowd-related issues, India can minimize the occurrence of these tragic events.
See lessWhat measures are needed to address the challenges posed by the rising frequency of flash droughts? (200 words)
Model Answer Introduction Flash droughts are rapid and intense dry spells that emerge with little warning, resulting in severe consequences for agriculture, water resources, and the environment. With climate change amplifying the frequency of these events, it is essential to implement measures to miRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Flash droughts are rapid and intense dry spells that emerge with little warning, resulting in severe consequences for agriculture, water resources, and the environment. With climate change amplifying the frequency of these events, it is essential to implement measures to mitigate their impact.
1. Early-Warning Systems
The unpredictability of flash droughts makes early detection crucial. Establishing systems to monitor changes in soil moisture and evapotranspiration can help forecast the onset of droughts. This would provide stakeholders, especially farmers, with valuable lead time to take precautionary actions. For example, monitoring these parameters could serve as an early indicator for regions facing imminent drought conditionsmproved Forecasting
Better integration of short-term weather predictions with long-term climatic models is necessary to predict flash droughts more accurately. Enhanced meteorological and climatic forecasting can bridge the gap, helping local governments, agricultural zones, and water management agencies prepare in advance .
2. Segment and Conservation
Developing local water storage infrastructure, promoting the use of drought-resistant crops, and implementing strict water-use policies are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of flash droughts. These measures will ensure that water resources are conserved efficiently and can be accessed during dry periods .
3. Research tion
Investing in research to understand the underlying causes and solutions for flash droughts is critical. The United States Drought Monitor, for example, tracks and labels drought areas by intensity, improving forecasting accuracy and helping with proactive decision-making .
4. Awareness and Prep
Raising awareness among communities, especially in agriculture, is crucial. Educating farmers about potential signs of flash droughts—such as unusual heat patterns and low rainfall—can help them take early action to safeguard crops and mitigate yield losses .
Conclusion
Addressing fla a multi-pronged approach that includes better forecasting, early warning systems, efficient water management, and continuous research. Combining these efforts with global climate change mitigation strategies will ensure resilience against this growing climate threat.
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