Avalanches in Uttarakhand

Avalanches are natural disasters that occur when layers of snow slide down slopes. The recent avalanche in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district marks the dangers of these events. On March 2, 2025, an avalanche struck a Border Roads Organisation camp, resulting in eight fatalities. This incident puts stress on the vulnerability of regions like Uttarakhand to such disasters, exacerbated by climate change.

What Is An Avalanche?

An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope. It occurs when an unstable mass of snow breaks away. As it descends, the snow accelerates, creating a powerful force. Avalanches can weigh up to a million tonnes and travel at speeds exceeding 320 km/h. They typically follow a snowpack, which consists of layers of accumulated snow.

Types Of Avalanches

Avalanches can be categorised into several types – – Rock Avalanches – Comprised of large rock fragments. – Ice Avalanches – Commonly occur around glaciers. – Debris Avalanches – Contain loose materials like soil and stones. – Sluff Avalanches – Small slides of dry snow. – Slab Avalanches – More dangerous, involving a cohesive block of snow.

Causes Of Avalanches

Several factors contribute to avalanche occurrence:

• Snowstorms – Heavy snowfall increases avalanche risk.
• Layering of Snow – Accumulated layers can become unstable.
• Steeper Slopes – Gravity plays role in triggering avalanches.
• Global Warming – Rising temperatures can destabilise snowpacks.
• Human Activity – Construction can disturb snow layers.
• Deforestation – Loss of trees weakens soil stability.
• Earthquakes – Seismic activity can trigger snowpack slides.

Uttarakhand’s Vulnerability

Uttarakhand is prone to avalanches due to its geography. High-altitude areas with steep slopes are particularly at risk. The recent avalanche struck a national highway in a known high-risk zone. Heavy snowfall and rain complicated rescue efforts, denoting the challenges faced in such regions.

Controlling Avalanches

Predicting avalanches is complex. Scientists assess hazard levels based on snowpack conditions. Measures to control avalanches include: – Avalanche Detention Walls – To hold back snow. – Rakes and Diversion Structures – To redirect snow flow. – Controlled Triggering – Using explosives to induce smaller slides. – Avalanche Beacons – Devices that help locate victims in the snow.

Historical Context Of Avalanches

Avalanches have caused loss of life throughout history. During World War I, over 60,000 soldiers died in avalanches in the Alps. In 1970, a massive avalanche in Peru killed 18,000 people. These events serve as reminders of the destructive potential of avalanches.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of climate change on natural disasters like avalanches.
2. Discuss the role of human activities in exacerbating avalanche risks in mountainous regions.
3. What measures can be implemented to enhance disaster preparedness in high-risk areas? How effective are these measures?
4. Critically discuss the historical significance of avalanches in shaping regional disaster management policies.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of climate change on natural disasters like avalanches.

1. Climate change leads to rising temperatures, causing snowpack instability.
2. Increased precipitation can result in heavier snowfalls, raising avalanche risk.
3. Warmer winters can lead to more frequent freeze-thaw cycles, weakening snow layers.
4. Glacial melting alters landscapes, potentially triggering more avalanches.
5. Climate change exacerbates existing vulnerabilities in regions like Uttarakhand.

2. Discuss the role of human activities in exacerbating avalanche risks in mountainous regions.

1. Infrastructure development can disturb snow layers, increasing slide risks.
2. Deforestation weakens soil stability, making slopes more prone to avalanches.
3. Tourism activities may lead to increased foot traffic on vulnerable slopes.
4. Construction vehicles can trigger avalanches by displacing snow layers.
5. Inadequate land-use planning can exacerbate risks in avalanche-prone areas.

3. What measures can be implemented to enhance disaster preparedness in high-risk areas? How effective are these measures?

1. Implementing avalanche detection systems can provide early warnings.
2. Constructing avalanche barriers can mitigate the impact on infrastructure.
3. Conducting regular risk assessments helps in planning and preparedness.
4. Training local populations in avalanche safety and rescue techniques is essential.
5. Controlled triggering methods can reduce the likelihood of large avalanches.

4. Critically discuss the historical significance of avalanches in shaping regional disaster management policies.

1. Past avalanche disasters have brought into light the need for better risk management strategies.
2. Historical events have led to the establishment of monitoring systems in vulnerable areas.
3. Lessons learned from past avalanches inform current building codes and land use policies.
4. Government responses to historical avalanches shape funding for disaster preparedness.
5. Increased awareness from past incidents drives community engagement in safety measures.