Dehradun, 28 August (H.S.): The devastating floods and debris disaster that struck Nepal's Himalayan region on August 26 has renewed concerns over the risks posed by Himalayan disasters in Uttarakhand. Experts said that, given the growing risks associated with changes in glaciers and Himalayan slopes, sudden extreme water flows, avalanches and landslides, the state needs to place greater emphasis on a long-term disaster risk reduction policy alongside relief and reconstruction efforts.

The recent tragedy in Nepal serves both as a warning and a lesson for Uttarakhand. It is now imperative to prioritise a review of preparations for monitoring glacial lakes, assessing river and flood risks, strengthening the safety of bridges and roads, establishing rapid information systems at the local level, and rehabilitating vulnerable populations.

In Nepal, a sudden rise in water levels in rivers originating in the upper Himalayas, accompanied by a massive surge of water and debris, caused extensive destruction. Such events are viewed in the context of risks associated with Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), avalanches and geological changes in the Himalayan region. The breaching of natural dams in upper reaches or the movement of glaciers and ice masses can suddenly increase the volume and pressure of water and debris in rivers, with the impact potentially extending to downstream areas.

Uttarakhand is also part of the same Himalayan geological system. Major rivers such as the Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Mandakini, Pindar and Dhauliganga are fed by glaciers and Himalayan water sources. Consequently, major natural events occurring in the upper Himalayan region can have far-reaching consequences in river valleys downstream.

Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Minister Madan Kaushik said Uttarakhand is a disaster-prone state and that the government is working seriously to reduce potential risks.

He said that, drawing lessons from the recent disaster in Nepal, the monitoring mechanisms for glacial lakes, rivers and other vulnerable areas in the state are being further strengthened. Special emphasis is being placed on scientific surveys of vulnerable glacial lakes, regular monitoring and the installation of advanced early-warning systems.

The minister said additional equipment and technical resources would be provided wherever necessary so that information about potential threats could reach the administration and the public well in advance. He said the government's priority was to protect lives and livelihoods. Efforts are being made to minimise potential loss of life through preparedness before disasters, timely warnings, capacity building at the local level and improved coordination among departments. All concerned departments and officials have been instructed to remain alert during the monsoon and ensure prompt action whenever required.

Balance between development and the carrying capacity of the Himalayas essential

According to experts, roads, hydropower, pilgrimage and tourism are important pillars of economic activity in Uttarakhand. However, their expansion must take into account the natural fragility and carrying capacity of the Himalayan ecosystem.

Geoscience expert Prof. M. P. S. Bisht said lessons must be drawn from disasters such as those of 1894, 1970 and 2013, and future risks must be identified in advance. Along with strengthening early-warning systems, clear standards should be established for construction and settlements along riverbanks and in areas vulnerable to flooding.

Experts said merely framing regulations would not be sufficient. Effective restrictions on construction in natural river channels and floodplains, scientific mapping of risk-prone areas and arrangements for the safe rehabilitation of vulnerable populations are also essential.

Several major disasters recorded in history

From the Alaknanda flood of 1894 to the devastating flood of 1970 and the 2013 Kedarnath disaster, several events in Uttarakhand have highlighted the vulnerability of Himalayan rivers. The 1970 Alaknanda flood caused extensive damage in the Chamoli region. Following the impact on Chamoli town, which was situated along the river, the district headquarters was shifted to Gopeshwar.

In 2013, extreme rainfall, avalanches, landslides and sudden surges in rivers caused widespread devastation across the Mandakini and Alaknanda valleys, including Kedarnath.

On February 7, 2021, an avalanche-triggered disaster caused massive destruction in the Dhauliganga valley. Hydropower projects in the Raini and Tapovan areas were damaged and a large number of people lost their lives. The disaster further underscored the need for scientific risk assessments before undertaking large-scale construction and hydropower projects in the Himalayan region.

Disasters in recent years in Dharali, Tharali and other areas have also exposed the vulnerability of villages and towns located along riverbanks.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar