Recent investigations have raised alarms about landslide risks in four hills of a district—Bevinche, Thekkil, Veeramalakkunnu, and Mattali. These risks are attributed to unscientific soil extraction connected to national highway construction. A report by geologists from the Geological Survey of India marks the inadequacy of current remedial measures. The findings tell serious violations of slope guidelines, leading to destabilised terrains.
Background and Context
The investigation began after village officers reported potential hazards. The Geological Survey of India team assessed the situation. Their analysis revealed that the removal of laterite layers has compromised the structural integrity of the hills. Veeramalakkunnu has already suffered landslides during heavy rainfall, indicating the urgency of the situation.
Findings of the Geological Survey
The report details visible cracks and gaps in the landscape. These cracks resemble wounds and pose threat. Rainwater and groundwater can exacerbate the situation by flowing through these fissures. The geologists recommend immediate action to strengthen the hill surfaces according to soil type and slope conditions.
Recommended Measures
To mitigate the risks, the report suggests the implementation of effective water drainage systems. Current horizontal drainages are obstructed, which can lead to water accumulation. The geologists advocate for the installation of efficient subsurface drains and alternative drainage pipe designs. These measures are crucial for preventing further destabilisation.
Current Conditions and Challenges
Some areas have been covered with concrete; however, the lack of drainage holes has created hazardous conditions. Cracked concrete layers and collapsed soil are widespread, worsening the risk of landslides. The report calls for detailed studies based on site conditions, including slope angles and geological inputs, to develop a comprehensive strategy.
Regulatory Actions
The Mining and Geology department previously fined the construction company ₹1.75 crore for violations related to soil extraction in Veeramalakkunnu. This company is also responsible for activities at the other three flagged sites. Regulatory oversight is essential to prevent further environmental degradation.
Importance of Sustainable Practices
Sustainable construction practices are vital to ensure the safety of these hill areas. Unscientific soil extraction must be addressed to protect the environment and prevent future disasters. Collaboration between government bodies, geologists, and construction companies is necessary to implement effective solutions.
Future Considerations
Ongoing monitoring and adherence to geological guidelines will be key in managing landslide risks. The need for a multi-faceted approach to soil management and drainage implementation cannot be overstated. Ensuring safety in these vulnerable areas requires immediate and sustained efforts.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the impact of unregulated construction practices on environmental stability.
- Analyse the role of geological surveys in disaster management and mitigation strategies.
- Discuss the importance of implementing effective drainage systems in hilly terrains.
- Critically discuss the regulatory framework governing construction activities in ecologically sensitive areas.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the impact of unregulated construction practices on environmental stability.
- Unregulated construction leads to soil degradation, destabilizing terrain and increasing landslide risks.
- Removal of protective vegetation and laterite layers disrupts natural water drainage and soil retention.
- Increased sedimentation in water bodies can affect aquatic ecosystems and water quality.
- Long-term ecological impacts include habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity in affected areas.
- Community health risks arise from potential disasters, affecting livelihoods and safety of residents.
2. Analyse the role of geological surveys in disaster management and mitigation strategies.
- Geological surveys assess risks by identifying vulnerable areas and evaluating geological conditions.
- They provide essential data for developing effective land-use and construction guidelines.
- Surveys help in monitoring environmental changes and predicting potential hazards like landslides.
- Collaboration with disaster management authorities enables timely intervention and preventive measures.
- Surveys inform the public and stakeholders about risks, promoting awareness and preparedness.
3. Discuss the importance of implementing effective drainage systems in hilly terrains.
- Effective drainage systems prevent water accumulation, reducing the risk of soil erosion and landslides.
- They help manage surface runoff, directing water away from vulnerable areas and structures.
- Proper drainage mitigates the impact of heavy rains, preserving the structural integrity of hills.
- Subsurface drains can enhance soil stability by reducing hydrostatic pressure in the ground.
- Drainage systems contribute to sustainable land management, balancing ecological health and construction needs.
4. Critically discuss the regulatory framework governing construction activities in ecologically sensitive areas.
- Regulatory frameworks aim to protect ecological integrity by enforcing guidelines for construction practices.
- They require environmental impact assessments (EIAs) before project approvals to evaluate potential risks.
- Enforcement of fines and penalties for violations helps deter unscientific practices and promotes compliance.
- Collaboration among government bodies, local communities, and environmental experts is crucial for effective regulation.
- Continuous monitoring and updating of regulations ensure adaptability to changing environmental conditions.
