Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly define the Fujiwhara effect. Mention its significance in the context of cyclonic activity and its growing frequency due to global warming. 2. Explanation of the Fujiwhara Effect Define the Fujiwhara effect as the interaction between two cyclones or ...
Model Answer Uttarakhand, a rapidly urbanizing Himalayan state, faces several threats due to unplanned urban growth, especially in its mountainous regions. Urbanization in Uttarakhand has increased significantly, with over 30% of the population residing in urban areas as per the 2011 Census. HoweverRead more
Model Answer
Uttarakhand, a rapidly urbanizing Himalayan state, faces several threats due to unplanned urban growth, especially in its mountainous regions. Urbanization in Uttarakhand has increased significantly, with over 30% of the population residing in urban areas as per the 2011 Census. However, this growth is largely unregulated, which leads to the following risks:
1. Geological Threats
Unplanned urbanization has shifted construction from stable areas to geologically vulnerable zones, such as higher elevations and floodplains. Towns like Nainital, Mussoorie, and Joshimath are particularly susceptible to natural disasters due to their location in geologically unstable regions. This uncontrolled urban growth increases the risk of landslides and other geological hazards.
2. Geohydrological Hazards
Lack of proper planning has led to urban sprawl in areas prone to landslides, flooding, and other water-related risks. Cities like Srinagar and Bageshwar, situated on floodplains of the Himalayan rivers, are especially vulnerable to flooding and land mass movement. The increasing construction in these areas worsens the impact of geohydrological hazards.
3. Ecosystem Disruption
Unplanned urban growth has drastically altered the land use in Uttarakhand, causing a disruption of ecosystem services. Overdevelopment, especially in urban centers, has led to a reduction in groundwater recharge, damaging underground water resources and affecting the region’s hydrological processes. This damage further impacts local biodiversity and the natural water supply.
4. Increasing Inequality
Rapid urban expansion has led to the growth of slums in ecologically sensitive areas, including fragile slopes, water channels, and drainage areas. This increases the vulnerability of marginalized populations to environmental risks. Slum residents in these areas face inadequate infrastructure and heightened exposure to natural disasters.
Conclusion
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to implement an urban land-use policy, conduct environmental impact assessments, and incorporate disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation strategies into urban planning. Sustainable urbanization is critical for the long-term resilience of Uttarakhand’s mountainous regions.
See less
Model Answer The Fujiwhara effect refers to the interaction between two cyclones or hurricanes when they come close enough to spin around a common center, creating a dramatic and intense "dance" between them. This effect occurs when the cyclones are close enough to influence each other’s rotation. ARead more
Model Answer
The Fujiwhara effect refers to the interaction between two cyclones or hurricanes when they come close enough to spin around a common center, creating a dramatic and intense “dance” between them. This effect occurs when the cyclones are close enough to influence each other’s rotation. As per the National Weather Service (NWS), these cyclonic interactions are becoming more frequent, largely attributed to global warming, which heats ocean waters and enhances cyclone activity.
Implications of the Increasing Occurrence of the Fujiwhara Effect on Coastal Regions
Given its unpredictable nature, it is essential to enhance disaster preparedness and develop effective early warning systems to mitigate risks associated with the Fujiwhara effect.
See less