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Home/upsc: disaster management

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Lakshmi Devi
  • 1
Lakshmi DeviBegginer
Asked: July 20, 2024In:
  • 1

Numerous chemical accidents, such as the Bhopal gas tragedy and the Visakhapatnam gas leak, have highlighted the dangers associated with hazardous chemicals (HAZCHEM) in India. Talk about the shortcomings and level of readiness for Chemical Disaster Management (CDM) in India ...

upsc: disaster management
  1. Babita Singh
    Babita Singh Begginer

    The Bhopal Gas tragedy of 1984 is the amongst the worst chemical disaster in history, where over 2000 people died due to the accidental release of the toxic gas Methyl Isocyanate. Recently, the Vizag gas leak at LG Polymers plant in Visakhapatnam killed 12 people and sickened hundreds. Chemical disaRead more

    The Bhopal Gas tragedy of 1984 is the amongst the worst chemical disaster in history, where over 2000 people died due to the accidental release of the toxic gas Methyl Isocyanate. Recently, the Vizag gas leak at LG Polymers plant in Visakhapatnam killed 12 people and sickened hundreds. Chemical disasters, though low in frequency, have the potential to cause significant immediate or long-term damage, like injuries, permanent disabilities, loss of lives, damage to property and environment. India is amongst the very few countries, which have enshrined the right to live in a clean and wholesome environment as a fundamental right. After the Bhopal disaster in 1984, Chemical Disaster Management (CDM) received greater emphasis and following steps have been taken to prepare the mechanism to deal with any such disaster:

    • Regulatory framework: There are various legislations, which take into account CDM. For, example, Indian factories Act, 1948, The Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemicals Rules 1989, The Chemical Weapons Convention Act 2000, CAEPPR Rules 1996, Public Liability Insurance Act 1991, Explosives Act-1884, Insecticide Act-1968, Environment (Protection) Act-1986, and Disaster Management (DM) Act-2005. These regulatory frameworks deal with various issues like working conditions, regulating the usage of chemicals, mitigation efforts etc.
    • Institutional framework: A separate Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), has been earmarked as the nodal ministry for management of chemical disasters to ease coordination amongst other ministries, institutions and agencies to manage these disasters. Besides, research institutes like IITs, NEERI, etc. are also working in this domain.
    • NDMA guidelines to ministries/departments and states for preparing DM plans: The guidelines focus on all aspects of the DM cycle including prevention, mitigation, preparedness, relief, rehabilitation and recovery.
    • Other technical efforts: Installation of major accident Hazard Control System, GIS-based Emergency Management System, Environment Risk Reporting and Information Systems (ERRIS), etc.
    • Capacity building: Financial assistance has been provided for capacity development in CDM to various disaster management training institutes.

    While considerable progress has been made in the management of chemical disasters, critical gaps still exist in certain areas

    • Complex web of laws: Regulatory frameworks have numerous laws for various aspects under different ministries thus making it more difficult in terms of synchronizing the policies and have various issues at implementation levels and making it even more difficult for regulations.
    • Gaps in codes of practices, procedures and standards: There is a lack of national level risk assessment criteria and acceptable risks for chemical plants. Also, there are lacunae in procedure for conduct of safety audit and departmental inspections.
    • Untrained professionals: There is a lack of knowledge amongst the government officials, medical staff, as well as staff of the industry on CDM. Also, there is a shortage of clear accessible information on potential chemical hazards and their management.
    • Infrastructural gaps: Institutional framework for providing technical support at various levels is a key requirement for sustaining proper development and implementation of an effective disaster management system. These have not been fully identified.
    • Gaps in post disaster management: Mechanisms to deal with social and economic impacts of chemicals on human health, society and the environment, including liability, compensation and redress are not streamlined and strengthened to take adequate care of post disaster mitigation.

    Although good efforts have been made to minimize such accidents and to improve emergency preparedness at all levels, more needs to be done. One step in this regard can be preparing a database of all potential chemicals used in industries. Substantial efforts are still required to predict the potential occurrence of disasters, assess the damage potential, issue warnings, and to take other precautionary measures to mitigate their effects.

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Team
  • 0
TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define Disaster Preparedness: Explain it as a proactive approach to minimize disaster impacts. Introduce Hazard Zonation Mapping: State its significance in the context of landslide mitigation. Fact: “Disaster preparedness is crucial for effective disaster management.” (Source: UN Office ...

upsc: disaster management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Disaster preparedness refers to measures taken in advance to minimize the impact of natural or man-made disasters on human life and property. It is crucial for effective disaster management. Hazard zonation mapping serves as a vital tool in this context, particularly for miRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Disaster preparedness refers to measures taken in advance to minimize the impact of natural or man-made disasters on human life and property. It is crucial for effective disaster management. Hazard zonation mapping serves as a vital tool in this context, particularly for mitigating the risks associated with landslides.

    Identification of High-Risk Zones

    Hazard zonation mapping plays a pivotal role in identifying areas susceptible to landslides. By analyzing physical characteristics such as slope angle, geology, soil type, rainfall, and vegetation cover, different zones can be classified with varying degrees of landslide susceptibility. This information is essential for prioritizing disaster mitigation efforts in high-risk areas.

    Fact: “Geological and geographical factors are critical in determining landslide susceptibility.”

    Development of Early Warning Systems

    In identified high-risk zones, hazard zonation mapping can facilitate the development of early warning systems. These systems alert residents to evacuate in the event of a potential landslide. By pinpointing critical areas, such as those near rivers or steep slopes, authorities can strategically install warning systems to enhance community safety.

    Fact: “Early warning systems can significantly reduce fatalities and injuries during landslides.”

    Implementation of Mitigation Measures

    Hazard zonation mapping enables disaster managers to implement proactive measures to mitigate landslide risks. In high-risk areas, strategies such as constructing retaining walls, stabilizing slopes, and creating effective drainage systems can be executed to prevent or minimize the impact of landslides.

    Fact: “Physical mitigation strategies, when applied in high-risk zones, are effective in reducing landslide occurrences.”

    Development of Land-Use Policies and Regulations

    By identifying high-risk zones, hazard zonation mapping aids in formulating land-use policies and regulations. Restrictions can be enforced to limit activities like construction, mining, or logging in these vulnerable areas, thereby reducing the likelihood of landslides.

    Fact: “Land-use planning is essential for minimizing disaster risks in high-hazard areas.”

    Conclusion

    Hazard zonation mapping is instrumental in disaster mitigation by identifying high-risk areas for landslides and facilitating appropriate measures to reduce their impact. By prioritizing disaster preparedness through such tools, communities can be better protected, minimizing the loss of life and property during natural disasters.

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Eshan Nair
  • 0
Eshan NairBegginer
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
  • 0

Talk about how disaster management plans in India need to take traditional knowledge and indigenous traditions into account.

upsc: disaster management
  1. Pranay Nair
    Pranay Nair Begginer

    Discussing the Necessity of Incorporating Traditional Knowledge and Indigenous Practices into Disaster Management Strategies in India 1. Introduction Incorporating traditional knowledge and indigenous practices into disaster management strategies is essential for creating comprehensive and culturallRead more

    Discussing the Necessity of Incorporating Traditional Knowledge and Indigenous Practices into Disaster Management Strategies in India

    1. Introduction

    Incorporating traditional knowledge and indigenous practices into disaster management strategies is essential for creating comprehensive and culturally sensitive approaches. In India, which is diverse in terms of geography and cultures, traditional knowledge offers valuable insights into managing disasters effectively. This discussion explores the necessity of integrating these practices into modern disaster management strategies, highlighting recent examples to illustrate their relevance.

    2. Importance of Traditional Knowledge and Indigenous Practices

    A. Enhancing Local Relevance and Effectiveness

    1. Context-Specific Insights: Traditional knowledge often provides context-specific insights that can enhance disaster management strategies. Indigenous practices, developed over generations, are tailored to local environmental conditions and risks. For example, the use of bamboo construction techniques in flood-prone areas of Assam demonstrates how traditional practices are adapted to mitigate flood impacts.

    2. Community Resilience: Indigenous practices promote community resilience by fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility. In the Madhya Pradesh region, the Gond and Baiga tribes have traditional systems for managing water resources and coping with droughts, which are integral to local resilience and sustainability.

    B. Preserving Cultural Heritage and Practices

    1. Cultural Sensitivity: Incorporating traditional knowledge into disaster management respects and preserves cultural heritage. It ensures that disaster management strategies are culturally sensitive and acceptable to local communities. For example, the tribal knowledge of the Naga people in Nagaland includes traditional forecasting methods and community-based responses to natural hazards, which are respected and integrated into modern disaster planning.

    2. Holistic Approaches: Traditional practices often involve a holistic approach to disaster management that integrates environmental, social, and spiritual aspects. The Rural Development Foundation’s initiatives in Tamil Nadu incorporate local rituals and practices into disaster preparedness programs, recognizing their role in community cohesion and resilience.

    3. Recent Examples of Integrating Traditional Knowledge

    A. The 2004 Tsunami Response in Tamil Nadu

    1. Context and Response: Following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, there was a notable use of traditional knowledge in the response and recovery phases. Coastal communities in Tamil Nadu, who had historical knowledge of tsunamis and sea-level changes, utilized traditional warning signs and evacuation routes to enhance their response.

    2. Integration into Modern Strategies: Efforts were made to integrate this traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches. For example, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has since worked on combining traditional practices with advanced forecasting models to improve community-based tsunami warning systems.

    B. The Flood Management Practices in Assam

    1. Context and Practices: In Assam, traditional flood management practices, such as the construction of bamboo stilts for houses and the creation of flood-resistant agricultural techniques, have been used for centuries. These practices are based on indigenous knowledge of local flood patterns and river behavior.

    2. Modern Integration: Recent disaster management strategies in Assam have incorporated these traditional practices alongside modern techniques. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) collaborates with local communities to integrate traditional flood management methods into broader flood risk reduction strategies.

    C. The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Drought Management in Rajasthan

    1. Context and Practices: In Rajasthan, indigenous practices such as rainwater harvesting techniques (e.g., Johads) and the use of traditional water storage systems have been crucial in managing droughts. These practices reflect deep knowledge of local water scarcity and soil conditions.

    2. Policy Integration: The Rajasthan Government has recognized these practices and incorporated them into its drought management policies. The Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) includes traditional water conservation practices as part of its approach to managing water resources in arid regions.

    4. Recommendations for Incorporating Traditional Knowledge

    A. Documenting and Validating Traditional Knowledge

    1. Systematic Documentation: Efforts should be made to systematically document traditional knowledge related to disaster management. This can involve collaborating with local communities and experts to compile and validate traditional practices.

    2. Research and Validation: Research should be conducted to validate the efficacy of traditional practices and integrate them into scientific disaster management frameworks. This can include field studies and pilot projects to test traditional practices in modern contexts.

    B. Strengthening Community Participation and Partnerships

    1. Inclusive Planning: Disaster management planning should include active participation from indigenous communities. Engaging local knowledge holders in planning processes ensures that strategies are relevant and acceptable to those most affected.

    2. Building Partnerships: Strengthening partnerships between government agencies, NGOs, and local communities can facilitate the integration of traditional knowledge into disaster management strategies. Collaborative efforts can enhance the effectiveness of disaster response and recovery.

    C. Education and Training

    1. Training Programs: Developing training programs that educate disaster management professionals about traditional knowledge and practices can enhance their understanding and integration into strategies.

    2. Awareness Campaigns: Conducting awareness campaigns to inform communities about the value of traditional knowledge and its role in modern disaster management can foster acceptance and support.

    5. Conclusion

    Incorporating traditional knowledge and indigenous practices into disaster management strategies in India is essential for creating effective, culturally sensitive, and locally relevant approaches. Traditional practices provide valuable insights into local risks and resilience mechanisms, enhancing the overall effectiveness of disaster management. Recent examples such as the use of traditional practices in Assam and Rajasthan illustrate the benefits of integrating these approaches. By documenting, validating, and incorporating traditional knowledge, and fostering community participation, India can enhance its disaster management strategies and build more resilient communities.

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Sangeeta rathor
  • 1
Sangeeta rathorBegginer
Asked: July 24, 2024In:
  • 1

Describe the Indian institutional architecture for disaster management.

upsc: disaster management
  1. Rubi Gautam
    Rubi Gautam Begginer

    Disaster management in India has evolved from an activity-based reactive setup to a proactive institutionalized structure and from a relief-based approach to a 'multi-dimensional pro- active holistic approach for reducing risk'. The current institutional framework is characterized by following mechaRead more

    Disaster management in India has evolved from an activity-based reactive setup to a proactive institutionalized structure and from a relief-based approach to a ‘multi-dimensional pro- active holistic approach for reducing risk’.

    The current institutional framework is characterized by following mechanisms:

    • National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): The National Disaster Management Act, 2005 Act provides for the setting up of NDMA at national level, and, the SDMA at the state level and the DDMAs at the district level.
      • NDMA is the apex body for disaster management, which has the responsibility for laying down the policies, plans, and guidelines for disaster management. The guidelines of NDMA assist the Central Ministries, Departments, and States to formulate their respective Disaster Management (DM) plans.
    • National Executive Committee (NEC): It acts as the coordinating and monitoring body for disaster management. The NEC may give directions to the relevant Ministries/Departments of the Centre, the State Governments, and the State Authorities regarding measures to be taken by them in response to any specific threatening disaster situation or disaster as per needs of the State.
    • National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR): A multi-stakeholder and multi-sectoral National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR) was constituted to include stakeholders including people representing different interests in the field of disaster management apart from centre and state governments.
    • National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM): It is the nodal agency responsible for human resource development, capacity building, training, research, documentation and policy advocacy in the field of disaster management. .
    • National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): The NDRF is a specialist response force that can be deployed in a threatening disaster situation or disaster.
    • The National Disaster Management Plan, 2016: It provides a framework and direction to the government agencies for all phases of the disaster management cycle. It provides for a comprehensive plan for different hazards with role and function clarity of all authorities involved.

    Similar structures exist at the State and District level for tackling disaster managements. These include State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), State Executive Committee and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA). Need of the hour is to ensure effective functioning of these mechanisms by overcoming their various shortcomings like hierarchical, bureaucratic, command and control, ‘top down’, approach that gives the central, state, and district authorities sweeping powers. Going forward, India can also work on institutionalizing mechanisms for community-based disaster management, disaster resilient infrastructure etc. Further, issues like having no concrete plan or policy for anticipating requirements and mobilisation of funds, lack of trained manpower need to be resolved for the purpose of effective disaster management.

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Sonali B
  • 1
Sonali BBegginer
Asked: July 16, 2024In:
  • 1

Does a good disaster risk reduction formula involve community resilience?

upsc: disaster management
  1. Kartik Sharma
    Kartik Sharma Begginer

    Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and reducing the risks of disaster. It aims to reduce socio-economic vulnerabilities to disaster as well as deal with the environmental and other hazards that trigger them. Community resilience is the sustained abilityRead more

    Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and reducing the risks of disaster. It aims to reduce socio-economic vulnerabilities to disaster as well as deal with the environmental and other hazards that trigger them. Community resilience is the sustained ability of a community to use available resources (energy, communication, transportation, food, etc.) to respond to, withstand, and recover from adverse situations. This allows for the adaptation and growth of a community after disaster strikes. The scope of community resilience extends beyond natural disasters and includes man made ones too.

    Role Of Community Resilience In Drr

    1. Communities are getting increasingly complex, and so are the challenges they face. Human-caused and natural disasters are more frequent now and costly too. Factors like climate change, globalization, and increased urbanization can bring disaster related risks to greater numbers of people.
    2. In this backdrop community resilience becomes crucial. Developing community resilience benefits disaster planners and community members alike. It expands the traditional preparedness approach by encouraging actions that build preparedness while also promoting strong community systems.
    3. In disaster risk reduction key preparedness activities such as continuity of operations plans for organizations, compiling disaster kits etc continue to be essential. A resilience approach adds features like building social connectedness and improving everyday health, wellness, and community systems.
    4. Earlier, the approach to Disaster Management (DM) was primarily reactive and relief-centric. However, disaster response alone is not sufficient as it yields only temporary results at a very high cost.
    5. Community resilience allows better planning for disasters to reduce disaster losses-rather than waiting for an event to occur and paying for it afterward.
    6. Although disasters will continue to occur, actions that move the nation from reactive approaches to disasters to a proactive stance where communities actively engage in enhancing resilience will reduce many of the broad societal and economic burdens that disasters can cause.
    7. The emphasis on community resilience has emerged from the need to identify principles and measures to protect development gains from shocks and stresses. Thus the aim here is to engage the community to ensure that shocks and stresses do not lead to a long-term downturn in development progress.

    Community Resilience Is Not Enough

    Communities do not exist in isolation. The level of a community’s resilience is also influenced by capacities outside the community, in particular by emergency management services but also by other social and administrative services, public infrastructure, and a web of socio-economic and political linkages with the wider world. Apart from community resilience we need:

    1. Understanding Disaster Risk by promoting the collection, analysis, management, and use of relevant data and practical information and ensuring its dissemination.
    2. Strengthening disaster risk governance by establishing and strengthening government coordination forums composed of relevant stakeholders at the national and local levels, and having a designated national focal point for implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030.
    3. Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction.
    4. To enhance international mechanisms, such as the International Recovery Platform, for the sharing of experience and learning among countries and all relevant stakeholders.

    Disaster Management has to be a multi-disciplinary and proactive approach. Besides various measures for putting in place institutional and policy framework, disaster prevention, mitigation, community resilience, and preparedness have a key role to play in achieving our goal of moving together, towards a safer India.

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Pritma Sharma
  • 0
Pritma SharmaBegginer
Asked: June 25, 2024In:
  • 0

In India, flash floods cause terrible damage to the homes located in low-lying areas. Talk about the causes of the regular flash floods that occur in India. Emphasize their influence as well. (Answer in 250 words)

upsc: disaster management
  1. Vishwa Mhatre
    Vishwa Mhatre Begginer
    Flash floods have a devastating impact on the habitations in low-lying regions in India. Discuss the reasons behind frequent occurrences of flash floods in India. Also, highlight their impact.

    Attached is an infographic based on flash floods  

    Attached is an infographic based on flash floods

     

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Dhruv Mehta
  • 0
Dhruv MehtaBegginer
Asked: July 27, 2024In:
  • 0

Talk about the difficulties in incorporating disaster risk reduction frameworks at the state and local levels in India with climate change adaptation initiatives.

upsc: disaster management
  1. Anirudh Singh
    Anirudh Singh Learner

    Integrating climate change adaptation strategies into disaster risk reduction (DRR) frameworks at the state and local levels in India presents several challenges. These challenges stem from the complexities of addressing both climate change and disaster risks, as well as the need for coordinated effRead more

    Integrating climate change adaptation strategies into disaster risk reduction (DRR) frameworks at the state and local levels in India presents several challenges. These challenges stem from the complexities of addressing both climate change and disaster risks, as well as the need for coordinated efforts across various levels of governance and sectors. Here’s a discussion of the key challenges:

    1. Institutional and Policy Fragmentation

    • Coordination Issues: Climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction often fall under different institutional frameworks and ministries. This fragmentation can lead to coordination challenges and inconsistencies in policy implementation.
    • Lack of Integration: Policies and strategies for climate change adaptation and DRR may operate in silos, lacking integration. This can result in missed opportunities for synergies and reduced overall effectiveness.

    2. Data and Information Gaps

    • Limited Data Availability: Effective adaptation and risk reduction require comprehensive and up-to-date data on climate change impacts, vulnerabilities, and risks. In many cases, state and local levels lack access to high-resolution data and climate projections.
    • Data Management: Even when data is available, managing and utilizing it effectively can be challenging. There may be issues with data sharing, accessibility, and interpretation.

    3. Capacity Constraints

    • Technical Expertise: There is often a shortage of technical expertise and knowledge required to integrate climate change adaptation into DRR frameworks. This includes understanding climate science, modeling impacts, and designing adaptation measures.
    • Resource Limitations: State and local governments may face resource constraints, including financial and human resources, which can impact their ability to implement and integrate adaptation strategies effectively.

    4. Community Engagement and Awareness

    • Awareness Gaps: Local communities may not fully understand the impacts of climate change or the importance of integrating adaptation measures into disaster risk reduction. Building awareness and understanding at the grassroots level is crucial for effective integration.
    • Participatory Approaches: Engaging communities in decision-making and ensuring their involvement in adaptation and DRR planning can be challenging. There may be barriers to effective participation and consultation processes.

    5. Policy and Regulatory Challenges

    • Policy Alignment: Aligning climate change adaptation strategies with existing DRR policies and regulations can be difficult. There may be discrepancies between national policies and local implementation practices.
    • Regulatory Gaps: In some cases, there may be gaps in regulations or policies that hinder the integration of adaptation strategies into DRR frameworks.

    6. Financial and Economic Constraints

    • Funding Availability: Securing adequate funding for both climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction can be challenging. There may be limited financial resources allocated for these purposes at the state and local levels.
    • Economic Considerations: Integrating adaptation measures may require upfront investment, which can be a barrier, especially in resource-constrained areas. Balancing immediate economic concerns with long-term adaptation needs is essential.

    7. Implementation and Monitoring

    • Actionable Plans: Developing actionable and practical plans that integrate adaptation into DRR frameworks can be complex. There may be challenges in translating strategies into concrete actions at the local level.
    • Monitoring and Evaluation: Effective monitoring and evaluation of integrated strategies are crucial for assessing their impact and effectiveness. Establishing robust monitoring systems and indicators can be challenging.

    Recommendations for Addressing Challenges:

    1. Strengthen Institutional Coordination: Enhance coordination between agencies and ministries responsible for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. Develop integrated policies and frameworks that address both issues simultaneously.
    2. Improve Data and Information Systems: Invest in data collection, management, and sharing systems to ensure that state and local authorities have access to relevant climate and risk data. Use this data to inform decision-making and planning.
    3. Build Capacity: Provide training and capacity-building programs for state and local officials to enhance their understanding of climate change impacts, adaptation strategies, and DRR practices. Support the development of technical expertise and knowledge.
    4. Enhance Community Engagement: Increase efforts to raise awareness about climate change and adaptation among local communities. Involve communities in the planning and implementation of adaptation and DRR measures to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.
    5. Align Policies and Regulations: Ensure that climate change adaptation strategies are integrated into existing DRR policies and regulations. Address any regulatory gaps and align national and local policies for cohesive implementation.
    6. Secure Funding and Resources: Advocate for increased funding and resources for climate change adaptation and DRR initiatives. Explore innovative financing mechanisms and partnerships to support the implementation of integrated strategies.
    7. Develop Actionable Plans: Create actionable and practical plans that integrate climate change adaptation into DRR frameworks. Focus on developing clear, actionable steps and monitoring systems to assess progress and effectiveness.

    In summary, integrating climate change adaptation strategies into disaster risk reduction frameworks at the state and local levels in India involves addressing challenges related to institutional coordination, data availability, capacity, community engagement, policy alignment, financial constraints, and implementation. By addressing these challenges and implementing targeted recommendations, India can enhance its preparedness and resilience to both climate change and natural disasters.

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Team
  • 0
TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context: Introduce the tsunami event of December 2004, highlighting its global impact, particularly on India. Thesis Statement: Outline the focus on factors causing tsunamis, their effects on life and the economy, and preparedness mechanisms as per NDMA ...

upsc: disaster management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction A tsunami is a catastrophic oceanic event, primarily caused by submarine earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. On December 26, 2004, an undersea megathrust earthquake off the west coast of northern Sumatra triggered one of the deadliest natural disasters in historRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    A tsunami is a catastrophic oceanic event, primarily caused by submarine earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. On December 26, 2004, an undersea megathrust earthquake off the west coast of northern Sumatra triggered one of the deadliest natural disasters in history, severely impacting 14 countries, including India. This tragedy highlighted the urgent need for a robust disaster preparedness strategy, as outlined by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in 2010.

    Factors Responsible for Tsunami Occurrence

    A. Submarine Earthquakes

    The 2004 tsunami was primarily triggered by a powerful undersea earthquake at the boundary of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates, registering a magnitude of 9.1.

    B. Water Displacement

    The vertical movement of the earthquake displaced vast amounts of water, generating waves that traveled across the Indian Ocean at high speeds, affecting coastal areas far from the epicenter.

    Effects on Life and Economy

    A. Human Impact

    The tsunami resulted in the loss of over 230,000 lives globally, with India’s coastal regions, particularly Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, suffering devastating casualties.

    B. Infrastructure Damage

    Critical infrastructure, including the Indira Gandhi Hospital in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, sustained significant damage, impairing healthcare services in affected areas.

    C. Socio-Economic Disruption

    The fishing industry in regions like Nagapattinam faced severe losses, negatively impacting livelihoods and leading to widespread economic hardship.

    NDMA Guidelines for Preparedness

    A. Early Warning System

    The Indian Tsunami Early Warning System (ITEWS) was established at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) to enable faster tsunami assessments and alerts.

    B. Structural Mitigation Measures

    Coastal structures in tsunami-prone areas, such as Kerala, have been upgraded to better withstand tsunami impacts.

    C. Non-Structural Measures

    Community-based disaster management programs in states like Odisha have effectively reduced risks and enhanced local resilience.

    D. Capacity Building

    Training for National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, healthcare professionals, and local communities has been prioritized to improve response efforts.

    E. Awareness Generation

    Public awareness campaigns in coastal regions aim to educate residents about tsunami risks and safety measures.

    Conclusion

    The 2004 tsunami underscored the destructive potential of natural disasters and the importance of preparedness. Following NDMA guidelines, India has made significant improvements in disaster risk reduction, yet further efforts are essential, particularly at the community level, to foster resilience against future catastrophes. Enhancing our ability to respond to natural disasters remains a critical challenge, especially in the context of climate change.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 23, 2024In:
  • 0

Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context: Introduce the issue of increasing incidents of cloudbursts in Uttarakhand and their impact on life and property. Thesis Statement: Highlight the relevance of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines in mitigating these impacts. 2. NDMA Guidelines ...

upsc: disaster management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Uttarakhand, a state in northern India, has faced numerous incidents of cloudbursts recently, leading to significant loss of life and property. To effectively mitigate the impact of these natural disasters, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has formulated coRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Uttarakhand, a state in northern India, has faced numerous incidents of cloudbursts recently, leading to significant loss of life and property. To effectively mitigate the impact of these natural disasters, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has formulated comprehensive guidelines.

    Mitigating Cloudburst Impact in Uttarakhand: NDMA Guideline-Based Measures

    1. Early Warning Systems: Establishing an effective early warning system is crucial. This system should utilize advanced weather monitoring technologies, such as Doppler radars and satellite imagery, to accurately detect and predict cloudburst events. The NDMA guidelines emphasize timely dissemination of warnings to vulnerable communities through various channels, including mobile alerts and community-based mechanisms.
    2. Infrastructure Development: Investment in robust infrastructure is vital. The NDMA advocates for constructing well-designed drainage systems, retaining walls, and embankments in high-risk areas. These structures are essential for channeling excess water and preventing flash floods, thereby protecting human settlements and critical infrastructure.
    3. Land-Use Planning: Implementing appropriate land-use planning strategies is important. The NDMA guidelines stress identifying and mapping vulnerable areas prone to cloudbursts and restricting construction in these regions. Adhering to zoning regulations and building codes can significantly reduce the exposure of settlements to cloudburst risks.
    4. Reforestation and Soil Conservation: Restoring and conserving forests is crucial for mitigating cloudburst impacts. The NDMA highlights the importance of reforestation initiatives to enhance soil’s natural water-holding capacity and reduce erosion. Planting indigenous tree species and implementing soil conservation measures can stabilize slopes and improve water absorption.
    5. Capacity Building and Training: Effective response to cloudburst incidents requires capacity building and training programs. The NDMA emphasizes training local communities and disaster response teams in early warning system operation, search and rescue techniques, and community-based disaster management.
    6. Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about cloudbursts and their hazards is vital for disaster preparedness. The NDMA recommends developing educational campaigns at the community level to promote safety practices, including emergency kits and evacuation plans.
    7. Coordination and Collaboration: Effective coordination among stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and NGOs, is key to mitigating cloudburst impacts. The NDMA stresses establishing multi-agency coordination mechanisms to ensure a unified response during incidents.

    Conclusion

    By implementing these NDMA guidelines, Uttarakhand can strengthen its disaster management strategies and minimize the impact of cloudburst incidents. Timely preventive measures, early warning systems, and community participation will significantly reduce casualties and enhance resilience in affected regions.

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Team
  • 0
TeamSupreme
Asked: August 22, 2024In:
  • 0

Dam failures are invariably disastrous, particularly when they occur downstream and cause enormous losses in terms of both lives lost and property. Examine the several reasons why dams break. Give two instances of significant dam failures. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]

upsc: disaster management
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Dams play a crucial role in managing water resources and generating hydroelectric power in India. However, the safety of these structures is increasingly concerning, especially given the ageing infrastructure and extreme weather events. Dam failures can lead to catastrophicRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Dams play a crucial role in managing water resources and generating hydroelectric power in India. However, the safety of these structures is increasingly concerning, especially given the ageing infrastructure and extreme weather events. Dam failures can lead to catastrophic consequences, particularly downstream, resulting in devastating loss of life and property.

    Causes of Dam Failures

    1. Natural Causes

    • Seismic Activity: Earthquakes can severely damage dam structures, as seen during the Bhuj earthquake in 2001, where many dams suffered significant damage.
    • Unprecedented Rainfall: The Kerala floods in 2018 demonstrated how torrential rains can overwhelm dam systems, leading to emergency releases and widespread flooding.

    2. Structural Flaws

    • Engineering deficiencies can contribute to failures. The Banqiao dam failure in China in 1975 occurred due to the inability of the dam to withstand heavy rainfall, illustrating the need for stringent quality control in dam construction (Source: International Commission on Large Dams).

    3. Human Error

    • Misjudgments in site geology can lead to disasters. The Vajont Dam disaster in Italy in 1963 was exacerbated by human errors, highlighting the importance of training for dam operators.

    4. Lack of Maintenance

    • Regular maintenance is critical. Reports by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India have pointed out lapses in the upkeep of various dams, necessitating regular inspections to prevent failures.

    5. Age of the Dam

    • Many dams, like the Mullaperiyar Dam, are over a century old, raising concerns about their structural integrity and the need for continuous assessment.

    Examples of Large Dam Failures

    1. Machchhu-2 Dam Failure (1979)

    On August 11, 1979, the Machchhu-2 dam in Gujarat failed due to excessive rainfall, resulting in catastrophic flooding that claimed between 1,800 to 25,000 lives.

    2. Uttarakhand Glacier Burst (2021)

    On February 7, 2021, a glacier burst in Uttarakhand triggered floods that damaged two dams, leading to significant loss of life and property, with over 170 people feared dead.

    Conclusion

    Dam failures pose serious risks to life and property, particularly in regions with aging infrastructure and extreme weather conditions. Understanding the causes—ranging from natural disasters to human error—is essential for improving dam safety and preventing future catastrophes.

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