HIMALAYAN TRAGEDY – Impact and Control

• GS-1: Geography (Avalanches, Himalayan Terrain)
• GS-3: Disaster Management (Rescue Operations, Preparedness Strategies)

Key Highlights

Avalanche Disaster in Uttarakhand:

• Avalanche at Mana village (Uttarakhand) buried 54 workers at a Border Roads Organisation (BRO) site.
• 23 workers were rescued, but 8 died due to extreme snowfall at 10,500 feet altitude.
• Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and Air Force helicopters conducted a 60-hour rescue operation.

Challenges in Disaster Response:

• Blocked roads and extreme cold hindered evacuation, requiring aerial rescues.
• Drones were used to detect buried containers, showcasing technological intervention in disaster management.
• The region, known for winter-migration, highlights seasonal vulnerabilities in high-altitude settlements.

Need for Better Preparedness:

• Despite historical experience with Himalayan avalanches, there is little focus on preemptive measures.
• Safer container designs, better warning systems, and enhanced shelters could improve survival rates.
• Lessons from Antarctic research stations could help in designing resilient infrastructure for disaster-prone areas.

Analysis & Way Forward

• Strengthening early warning systems for avalanche-prone zones can minimize casualties.
• Mandating climate-resilient housing & protective structures at construction sites is crucial.
• Raising worker awareness on Himalayan hazards will improve disaster preparedness.

Mains Mock Question:

“How can India improve disaster preparedness in high-altitude regions? Discuss with reference to recent avalanches in the Himalayas.”