NDMA issues Himalayan Cloudburst and Flash Flood Survey

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) through J&K State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has embarked on a survey on cloudbursts and flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh in detail. The survey is backed by the ISRO satellite mapping aimed at finding reasons behind sudden water spikes and developing disaster-proofing options in the Himalayan area.

Objectives of the Survey      

• Determine the trace origins of flash floods and cloudbursts.
• ISRO imagery can be used to track remote glacial lakes that are likely to burst.
• Combine geological, hydrological and climatic information to forecast disaster.
• Suggest preventive and remedial actions to decrease risks.

Reasons behind Cloudbursts & Flash Floods.

• Very heavy rainfall within low time.
• Floods due to the melting of glaciers are known as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).
• Fracturing of rocks by micro-seismic activity and earthquakes.
• Glacier melting and seismicity becoming more intense.

Recent Impacts

• Dharali village in Uttarakhand was covered by debris.
• Ramban and Reasi (J&K) saw death and destruction of homes.
• Frequent disasters highlight the frailty of Himalayan foothill communities.

Creating Strong Infrastructure.

• Housing, bridges, and power plants that are earthquake proof.
• Experience in disaster resistant structures in Japan.
• A ban on construction in the most prone foothill areas proved successful, e.g., in Sikkim.

Seismic & Climate Link

• Himalayas are often prone to micro-earthquakes, which enhances the cracks in rocks.
• The shrinkage of the glaciers decreases the lithospheric load, which increases the seismic activity.
• When they work together, they increase the vulnerability to disasters.

Future Measures

• Mapping of disaster prone areas and surveillance of glacial lakes.
• Enhancement of early warning mechanisms.
• The combination of scientific information and the knowledge of locals.
• Achieving sustainable development and conservation to safeguard biosphere.