Why in News: Recent devastating floods in Dehradun and monsoon 2025 floods across J&K, Himachal, Punjab, and Uttarakhand highlighted Himalayan fragility.
Challenges
1. Geophysical Vulnerability – Fragile mountains prone to landslides, cloudbursts, glacial lake outbursts.
2. Climate Change – Increasing frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events.
3. Inadequate Technology – Limited real-time mapping, early warning, and communication systems.
4. Human Factors – Encroachment, deforestation, illegal mining, unsafe construction on slopes.
5. Coordination Gaps – Fragmented response across agencies.
Current Response
- Quick deployment by Army, NDRF, SDRF, IAF, CRPF, ITBP, and local volunteers.
- Use of drones, satellite links, and communication channels for real-time updates.
- NDMA’s Aapda Mitra programme for community volunteers.
Way Forward
1. Technology Scale-up
- Expand Geological Survey of India (GSI) landslide mapping.
- Strengthen NRSC monitoring of glacial lakes/debris flows.
- Wider use of GIS, drones, Doppler radars, AI-based forecasting.
2. Infrastructure Resilience
- Rebuild roads and bridges with slope stabilization.
- Strengthen river embankments and regulate construction.
3. Community Preparedness
- Mandatory school and panchayat-level disaster training.
- Local drills are seen as essential, not token exercises.
4. Institutional Reforms
- Strengthen NDMA and state disaster agencies.
- Integrated coordination among civil, military, and technical bodies.
UPSC Relevance
GS-3 (Disaster Management, Environment, Infrastructure, Climate Change)
Showcases link between climate resilience, technology, and governance in vulnerable regions.
Mains Practice Question:
Q.Disaster management in the Himalayas requires more than reactive measures; it needs proactive technology-led resilience building. Discuss.