Q. Climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of natural disasters in India. Discuss the challenges this poses for disaster management and suggest strategies to build long-term resilience. [250 Words] [15 Marks]

Approach:

• Introduction:

1. 1. • Define climate change and its link to natural disasters
      • Mention recent disaster trends in India

• Body:

1. 1. • Challenges for disaster management
      • Strategies for building long-term resilience

• Conclusion:

1. • Emphasise the urgency of action
   • Highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach

Model Answer:

Introduction: Climate change is intensifying the frequency and severity of natural disasters globally. In India, this trend is evident through increased occurrences of cyclones, floods, and droughts, posing significant challenges to disaster management efforts.

Body:

Challenges for disaster management:

• Unpredictability: Climate change-induced disasters are becoming more erratic, making it difficult to predict and prepare for events. Example: The 2018 Kerala floods were unprecedented in scale, catching authorities off guard.
• Increased frequency: More frequent disasters strain resources and recovery efforts. Data: India experienced 321 natural disasters between 2010-2020, compared to 239 in the previous decade (CRED).
• Cascading impacts: Climate-related disasters often trigger secondary hazards, complicating response efforts. Example: The 2013 Uttarakhand floods led to landslides, further hampering rescue operations.
• Vulnerable populations: Climate change disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities. Fact: Over 40% of India's population lives in coastal areas, vulnerable to sea-level rise and cyclones.
• Economic strain: Frequent disasters drain financial resources, impacting long-term development plans. Data: India lost $79.5 billion to climate-related disasters between 1998-2017 (UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction).
• Infrastructure damage: Recurring disasters deteriorate critical infrastructure, hindering response and recovery. Example: Cyclone Fani in 2019 damaged over 500,000 houses in Odisha.
• Health system stress: Climate-induced disasters overwhelm healthcare systems, especially during pandemics. Fact: The 2020 Cyclone Amphan complicated COVID-19 response efforts in West Bengal.

Strategies for building long-term resilience:

• Improved early warning systems: Invest in advanced forecasting technologies and communication networks. Example: India Meteorological Department's modernization program has improved cyclone prediction accuracy.
• Climate-resilient infrastructure: Develop and retrofit infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events. Case study: Odisha's multipurpose cyclone shelters have significantly reduced casualties during cyclones.
• Ecosystem-based adaptation: Restore and protect natural buffers like mangroves and wetlands. Fact: Mangroves in Odisha reduced the impact of the 1999 super cyclone on coastal communities.
• Community-based disaster risk reduction: Empower local communities with knowledge and resources for preparedness. Example: The Disaster Risk Management Programme in Bihar has trained over 200,000 volunteers.
• Mainstreaming climate adaptation: Integrate climate resilience into all development planning and policies. Case study: Maharashtra's Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan covers multiple sectors.
• Sustainable urban planning: Implement climate-smart urban development to reduce disaster risks. Example: Surat's cool roof program mitigates urban heat island effect and flood risks.
• Diversified livelihoods: Promote climate-resilient agriculture and alternative income sources in vulnerable areas. Fact: Odisha's millet mission has improved food security and farmer resilience to droughts.
• Enhanced disaster response capacity: Strengthen National and State Disaster Response Forces with training and equipment. Data: NDRF has expanded from 8 battalions in 2006 to 16 in 2023, improving disaster response capabilities.

Conclusion: Building long-term resilience to climate-induced disasters requires a multi-faceted approach involving government, communities, and international cooperation. Proactive measures and sustainable development are crucial for safeguarding India's future against escalating climate risks.