Human responses to hazards and disasters in India vary across different regions and are influenced by factors such as geographical location, socio-economic conditions, infrastructure, and governance
Spatial analysis of human response to and management of hazards and disasters in India
Response in Northern India
- Northern India, particularly the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, experiences frequent flooding due to heavy monsoon rains and overflowing rivers like the Ganges and its tributaries.
- In response, authorities implement measures such as embankments, flood forecasting, and evacuation plans to mitigate the impact of floods.
- For eg. the construction of the Tehri Dam in Uttarakhand has helped regulate the flow of water in the Ganges basin.
- The Himalayan region is prone to landslides, especially during the monsoon season. Human responses include early warning systems, slope stabilization measures, and land-use planning to minimize vulnerability.
- For eg. in Himachal Pradesh, landslide hazard zonation maps are used for land-use planning and development control.
Response in Western India
- Coastal states like Gujarat and Maharashtra are susceptible to cyclones during the monsoon season.
- Preparedness measures include cyclone shelters, evacuation drills, and dissemination of early warnings through mobile networks and community radio.
- For eg. After the devastating Cyclone Tauktae in 2021, Gujarat authorities evacuated thousands of people and deployed rescue teams to minimize casualties.
- States like Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat face recurring droughts, leading to water scarcity and agricultural distress.
- Responses include water conservation measures, drought-resistant crop varieties, and employment guarantee schemes to support affected communities.
- In Rajasthan, initiatives like the Jal Swavlamban Yojana promote rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
Response in Eastern India
- The Brahmaputra and its tributaries cause annual floods in the northeastern states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
- Flood response strategies include embankments, rescue operations by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and community-based early warning systems.
- In Assam, the Brahmaputra Board undertakes flood control projects such as embankments and river training to minimize flood damage.
- Coastal regions of Odisha and West Bengal are vulnerable to cyclones like Cyclone Amphan and Cyclone Fani.
- Preparedness measures include cyclone shelters, mangrove restoration, and community-based disaster management committees.
- For eg. After Cyclone Phailin in 2013, Odisha’s community evacuation efforts, along with early warnings, helped save thousands of lives.
Response in Southern India
- Coastal states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala face cyclones and storm surges during the monsoon season.
- Responses include cyclone shelters, mangrove conservation, and coastal zone regulations.
- For eg. After Cyclone Nivar in 2020, Tamil Nadu authorities evacuated thousands of people to safety and restored essential services promptly.
- States like Karnataka and Maharashtra experience drought conditions, leading to crop failures and water scarcity.
- Responses include drought-proofing measures, water conservation projects (Rain water harvesting is mandatory in residential and commercial buildings in Tamil Nadu) and alternative livelihood options.
- In Maharashtra, the Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan focuses on watershed management and rainwater harvesting to mitigate drought impacts.
National Disaster Management Authority, Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Mapping, Building Codes and Regulations, National Disaster Response Force, National Disaster Relief Fund are steps in the right direction taken by the Indian
government to combat disasters in India.
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