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  • Fighting forest fires with a plan and community cooperation

    Why in the news? 

    The forest staff across the Kerala State are on alert with the onslaught of summer, with temperatures reaching as high as 40-41 degrees Centigrade, unusual for this time.

    Forest Fires in Kerala 

    • Kerala records relatively fewer forest fires compared to several other states in India, including Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, and Maharashtra.
    • Kerala’s forest cover, occupying 29.65% of the land, is dominated by deciduous and semi-deciduous woods that are drying up, especially on the forest periphery because of it Forest staff in Kerala are on alert
    •  Kerala reported 163 wildfire incidents since January, resulting in the burning of 230 hectares of forest, which is less compared to previous years.
    • Global Forest Watch data indicates 97 VIIRS(Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suit) fire alerts in Kerala between March 15 and 22, with only 5.2% of them classified as high-confidence alerts.Fires were responsible for 0.33% forest cover loss in Kerala between 2001 and 2022 according to Global Forest Watch.

    What is the frequency of forest fires in India?

    •  Escalation Of forest Fire : Forest fire season in India typically spans from November to June, during which hundreds of thousands of small and large fires occur annually. The frequency of fires tends to escalate from February onwards as summer approaches.
    • forest Fires as per (ISFR) : In its 2021 report, the biennial India State of Forest Report (ISFR) released by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) indicates that 35.47% of the forest cover is classified as fire-prone areas.

    Region more prone to forest Fire

    • Fires of severe magnitude occur frequently in dry deciduous forests, whereas evergreen, semi-evergreen, and montane temperate forests are relatively less susceptible to fires.
    • During the November to June period, the forests in Northeast India, Odisha, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand face the highest risk of fires.For example in 2021, a string of forest fires occurred in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, the Nagaland-Manipur border, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, including within wildlife sanctuaries.
    • In 2024 forest Fires: According to data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI), Mizoram reported the highest number of forest fires (3,738), followed by Manipur (1,702), Assam (1,652), Meghalaya (1,252), and Maharashtra (1,215).

    Reason behind the forest fires in India 

    The majority of forest fires in India are ignited by human activities, including:

    • Agricultural Burning: Farmers often use fire to clear land for cultivation or to manage crop residues, leading to accidental fires spreading into nearby forests.For example Jhum (slash and burn cultivation)
    • Intentional Arson: Deliberate setting of fires for various reasons, such as land grabbing, hunting, or retaliatory actions.
    • Carelessness: Unattended campfires, discarded cigarettes, or burning of waste materials can spark fires.
    • Climate Conditions: Dry and hot weather conditions during the summer months create favorable conditions for the rapid spread of fires. .For example forest fires has worsen due to climate change as per UNEP

    Plan for Fighting forest Fires 

    • Early Detection: Implement systems for early detection of forest fires, such as fire watchtowers, aerial surveillance, and remote sensing technologies like drones and satellites.
    • Rapid Response: Develop well-trained and equipped firefighting teams capable of swift response to contain fires in their early stages before they escalate.
    • Controlled Burns: Conduct controlled burns during cooler and wetter months to remove excess vegetation and reduce the risk of large-scale wildfires during dry seasons.
    • Firebreaks: Create and maintain firebreaks by clearing vegetation along strategic points to halt the spread of fires.
    • Community Involvement: Educate local communities about fire prevention and train them in firefighting techniques. Encourage community participation in fire management efforts.
    • Equipment and Infrastructure: Ensure availability and proper maintenance of firefighting equipment such as hoses, pumps, bulldozers, and firefighting aircraft.

    Conclusion 

    Forest fires in India, exacerbated by climate conditions, pose significant threats. Kerala’s proactive measures and community involvement highlight effective strategies for prevention and control, crucial in mitigating the increasing frequency of fires nationwide.

     

     https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/natural-disasters/wildfires-will-be-more-frequent-larger-and-intense-due-to-climate-change-unep-81615

  • Why green hydrogen presents both major opportunities, significant challenges

    why in the news? 

    Recently, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a Rs-496-crore (until 2025-26) scheme to support pilot projects that either test the viability of green hydrogen as a vehicle fuel or develop secure supporting infrastructure such as refuelling stations.

    Objecive of MNRE scheme 

    (i) validation of technical feasibility and performance of green hydrogen as a transportation fuel

    (ii) evaluation of the economic viability of green hydrogen-powered vehicles

    (iii) demonstration of safe operation of hydrogen-powered vehicles and refuelling stations.

    About Green , Blue and grey hydrogen

    The significance of hydrogen fuel vehicles, particularly hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)

    • Zero Carbon Emissions: Both hydrogen ICE vehicles and FCEVs produce zero carbon emissions during operation.
    • Energy Efficiency: While research suggests that burning hydrogen in an ICE vehicle may be less energy-efficient than using it in a fuel cell, FCEVs still offer high energy efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly those powered by fossil fuels like diesel and petrol.
    • Clean Energy Production: Hydrogen can be produced through various renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
    • Lightweight and Increased Payload Capacity: Hydrogen FCEVs typically weigh less than battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to the lighter weight of hydrogen and the fuel cell stack compared to EV batteries.
    • Long-haul Freight Applications: Research indicates that long-haul FCEVs can carry freight amounts similar to diesel trucks, while BEVs may suffer from a weight penalty due to heavier batteries.  .
    • Diversification of Energy Sources: Hydrogen fuel vehicles offer a viable alternative to battery electric vehicles, providing diversification in energy sources for transportation.

     Challenges 

    • Storage and Transportation Challenges: Developing specialized cylinders capable of safely storing high-pressure green hydrogen is essential. Existing cylinders designed for compressed natural gas (CNG) are not suitable for hydrogen storage
    • Fuel Costs and Infrastructure: Green hydrogen-powered vehicles face challenges in competing with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to higher fuel costs and the need for infrastructure development, including hydrogen refueling stations. The cost of establishing and maintaining hydrogen refueling infrastructure is significant, hindering the widespread adoption of hydrogen FCEVs.
    • Safety Concerns: Hydrogen is highly flammable, necessitating robust safety standards and protocols for handling and storing the fuel at refueling stations.

    Conclusion 

    Green hydrogen offers zero emissions, energy efficiency, and diversification in energy sources for transportation. However, challenges like storage, infrastructure costs, and safety concerns hinder widespread adoption, despite MNRE’s support scheme.

    Mains PYQ

    Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Q Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg protocol.(UPSC IAS/2022)

  • How an Ethanol Factory has turned this Vijayawada village from idyllic charm to Industrial nightmare 

    Why in the news? 

    • Recently Gandepalli village in news because of devastating impact of an ethanol factory (Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd) since 2008
    • Residents are struggling with foul air and water, poisoned crop fields, and depleting water tables

    Negative impact on village 

    Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. is a company involved in the production of ethanol and animal feed supplements. It specializes in manufacturing extra-neutral alcohol (ENA), a type of ethanol.

    • Under the red category: Ethanol production plants and distilleries, including Sentini BioProducts, fall under the ‘red category’ as per Central government norms, indicating high pollution levels (score of 60 or more)
    • Wastewater Discharge: The factory is mandated to have a Zero Liquid Discharge system in place. However, residents report untreated wastewater discharge into the nearby irrigation canal.
    •  Air Pollution: Residents complain of a choking stench and polluted air emanating from the factory, indicating potential air pollution issues.
    •  Crop Damage: Extensive crop damage is reported by villagers, indicating potential contamination of agricultural lands by pollutants from the factory. Over more than 10 years, farmers in the area have experienced a decline in crop quality and yield, particularly in paddy cultivation.
    •  Negative Impact on quality of Life: Pollution from the factory negatively impacts the quality of life for local residents, posing health risks and environmental hazards.

    Regulatory Failures in this situation:

    • Unable to address the problem: Despite multiple complaints from villagers and show-cause notices issued to the factory since 2013, regulatory authorities, including the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB), have been ineffective in addressing the pollution issues.
    • Regulatory lapse revealed by Lokayukta: The Lokayukta inquiry revealed lapses by regulatory bodies, including the APPCB and the Joint Director of Agriculture of Krishna district, in investigating and addressing the environmental damage caused by the factory’s operations.
    • Delay in action: The delay in taking appropriate action and the failure to enforce environmental regulations have allowed the factory to continue its polluting activities unabated.

    Suggestive measures to address the situation:

    •  Need Comprehensive Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation into the environmental impact of Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. on Gandepalli village. This investigation should include assessments of air and water quality, soil contamination, and the extent of crop damage caused by the factory’s operations.
    • Enforcement of Environmental Standards: Ensure strict compliance with environmental standards and regulations by the factory.
    • Community Engagement: Foster meaningful dialogue and engagement between the factory management, regulatory authorities, and the local community. Provide opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, share their experiences, and participate in decision-making processes related to environmental management and pollution control measures.
    • Remediation and Compensation: Implement measures to remediate the environmental damage caused by the factory, including restoration of polluted water bodies, soil remediation, and compensation for affected farmers.

     Conclusion 

    The devastating impact of Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. on Gandepalli village, including pollution, crop damage, and regulatory failures, necessitates urgent comprehensive investigation, strict enforcement of environmental standards, community engagement, and remediation efforts to restore environmental health and livelihoods.

  • RBI to launch Mobile App for Retail Direct scheme

    Why in the news?

    The RBI has decided to introduce a Mobile App of its RBI Retail Direct scheme aimed at facilitating seamless investment in government securities by retail investors.

    What is Retail Direct Scheme?

    • Retail Direct Scheme was rolled out in November 2021, giving access to individual investors to maintain gilt accounts with RBI and invest in government securities.
    • Using this app, investors can buy central and state government bonds as well as Treasury bills.
    • It enables investors to buy securities in primary auctions as well as buy/sell securities through the Negotiated Dealing System-Order Matching system (NDS-OM) platform.
    • A Gilt Account can be compared with a bank account, except that the account is debited or credited with treasury bills or government securities instead of money.

    Treasury Bills:

    • They are promissory notes issued by the RBI on behalf of the government as a short term liability and sold to banks and to the public.
    • The maturity period ranges from 14 to 364 days.
    • They are the negotiable instruments, i.e. they are freely transferable.
    • No interest is paid on such bills but they are issued at a discount on their face value.

     How does it work?

    • Under the scheme, small investors can buy or sell government securities (G-Secs), or bonds, directly without an intermediary like a mutual fund.
    • However, the same tax rules apply to income from G-Secs.
    • The minimum amount for a bid is ₹10,000 and in multiples of ₹10,000 thereafter.
    • Payments may be made through Net banking or the UPI

    Benefits of RDS

    • With the government being the borrower, there is a sovereign guarantee for the funds and hence zero risk of default.
    • Also, government securities may offer better interest rates than bank fixed deposits, depending on prevailing interest rate trends.

    How can individuals access G-Sec offerings?

    • Investors wishing to open a Retail Direct Gilt account directly with the RBI can do so through an online portal set up for the purpose of the scheme.
    • Once the account is activated with the aid of a password sent to the user’s mobile phone, investors will be permitted to buy securities either in the primary market or in the secondary market.

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Reserve Bank of India manages and services Government of India Securities but not any State Government Securities.

    2. Treasury bills are issued by the Government of India and there are no treasury bills issued by the State Governments.

    3. Treasury bills offer are issued at a discount from the par value.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Rakhigarhi findings to be mentioned in NCERT books

    Why in the news?

    The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has proposed to add information about the DNA analysis of skeletal remains found at Rakhigarhi.

    DNA Findings of Rakhigarhi

    Their key findings include-

    • Debunking of the Aryan Invasion Theory.
    • The genetic roots of the Harappans date back to 10,000 BCE.
    • DNA of the Harappans has continued to exist among the majority of the South Asian population.
    • The study indicates genetic continuity without large-scale immigration.
    • Ancestry was closely linked to Iranian ancestry and not at all to Steppe ancestry.
    • Farming skills have been developed indigenously contrary to prevalent theories that these came with migrants from the Steppes and Anatolian farmers.

    About Rakhigarhi

    • The ancient site of Rakhi-Khas and Rakhi-Shahpur are collectively known as Rakhigarhi, located on the right bank of the now dried up Palaeo-channel of Drishadvati.
    • It is located in the Ghaggar-Hakra River plain in the Hissar district of Haryana.
    • Total seven mounds are located here.
    • The site has yielded various stages of Harappan culture and is by far one of the largest Harappan sites in India.
    • The site shows the sequential development of the Indus culture in the now dried-up Saraswati basin.

    Major findings at Rakhigarhi

    • Findings confirm both early and mature Harappan phases and include 4,600-year-old human skeletons, fortification and bricks.
    • Digging so far reveals a well-planned city with 92 m wide roads, a bit wider than in Kalibangan.
    • The pottery is similar to Kalibangan and Banawali.
    • Pits surrounded by walls have been found, which are thought to be for sacrificial or some religious ceremonies.
    • There are brick-lined drains to handle sewage from the houses.
    • Terracotta statues, weights, bronze artefacts, comb, copper fish hooks, needles and terracotta seals have also been found.
    • A bronze vessel has been found which is decorated with gold and silver.
    • A granary belonging to the mature Harappan phase has been found here.
    • Fire altars structures were revealed in Rakhigarhi.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?​

    (a) Dholavira

    (b) Kalibangan

    (c) Rakhigarhi

    (d) Ropar

  • In news: Ramapo Fault

    Why in the news?

    • An earthquake of magnitude 4.8 hit the New York City in a rare event.
    • The Ramapo Fault in Appalachian Mountains near New Jersey is a being considered as a reason behind this earthquake.

    Appalachian Mountains

    • The Appalachian Mountains extend from the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador in the north to central Alabama in the southern US.
    • The total length of the Appalachian Mountain range is approximately 2,200 miles (3,500 kilometers), making it one of the longest mountain chains in the world.
    • Geologically, it is one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth, formed over 480 million years ago during the Ordovician Period. They are considered a Paleozoic mountain range.
    • They were formed through a series of tectonic collisions and uplift events, including the assembly of the supercontinent Pangaea.
    • The highest peak in the range is Mount Mitchell in North Carolina, standing at an elevation of 6,684 feet (2,037 meters) above sea level.
    • The Appalachian Mountains hold cultural significance for various indigenous tribes, including the Cherokee, as well as early European settlers who established communities in the region.

    About Ramapo Fault

    • Fault lines are fractures in the Earth’s crust that facilitate movement of tectonic plates, triggering earthquakes.
    • The Ramapo Fault is resulted from tectonic activity associated with the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea during the Mesozoic Era.
    • It is primarily a right-lateral strike-slip fault, formed by horizontal movement along the fault line due to the ongoing motion between the North American and Eurasian plates.
    • While the Ramapo Fault is not as seismically active as faults in other regions, it has experienced earthquakes in the past and remains a potential source of seismic hazards.

    Geographical Distribution:

    • The fault extends across three states in the northeastern United States: Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
    • The fault crosses various topographic features, including rift valleys, hills, and ridges, reflecting the diverse geological history of the region.
    • It intersects with the Appalachian Mountains, influencing the overall topography of the surrounding areas.

    PYQ:

    [2012] When you travel in Himalayas, you will see the following:

    1.    Deep gorges

    2.    U-turn river courses

    3.    Parallel mountain ranges

    4.    Steep gradients causing land-sliding

    Which of the above can be said to be the evidences for Himalayas being young fold mountains?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • [pib] 15th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards 2024

    Why in the news?

    SJVN Limited has won two prestigious awards at the 15th Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) Vishwakarma Awards 2024, for their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

    About CIDC Vishwakarma Awards

    • The CIDC Vishwakarma Awards is one of the most esteemed recognitions within the construction sector.
    • It was launched in the year 2005.
    • The awards are named after Vishwakarma, the divine architect and engineer in Hindu mythology, symbolizing craftsmanship, creativity, and skill in construction.

    Key details about the Award

    • Organizer: The awards are organized by the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC), which is a body established by the GoI to promote the construction industry’s development and growth.
    • Categories: The awards cover a wide spectrum of categories, including:
      1. Construction Projects: Recognizing outstanding projects across different sectors such as residential, commercial, infrastructure, and industrial construction.
      2. Construction Technologies: Honoring innovative technologies and techniques that enhance construction processes, efficiency, and sustainability.
      3. Construction Equipment: Acknowledging advancements in construction machinery, tools, and equipment.
      4. Health, Safety, and Environment: Recognizing initiatives and practices that prioritize worker safety, environmental protection, and sustainability in construction.
      5. Individual Achievements: Celebrating the contributions of professionals and leaders who have made significant impacts in the construction industry.
      6. Others: Additional categories may include awards for sustainability, CSR initiatives, and emerging trends in construction.

    PYQ:

    [2020] In rural road construction the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?

    1.    Copper slag

    2.    Cold mix asphalt technology

    3.    Geotextiles

    4.    Hot mix asphalt technology

    5.    Portland cement

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 4 and 5 only

    (d) 1 and 5 only

    Back2Basics: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

    Description
    What is it? Self-regulating business model for social and environmental impact.
    Regulation in India Mandated under Companies Act, 2013 (amendment in 2014).
    Investment Areas Promote rural development, healthcare, education, environment, etc.
    CSR Committee Mandatory for companies meeting Rs 500 Cr net worth or Rs 1000 Cr turnover criteria.
    Spending Requirement At least 2% of average net profits of the last three financial years.
    Applicability Criteria Net worth >= Rs 500 Cr, Turnover >= Rs 1000 Cr, or Net profit >= Rs 5 Cr.
    Adjustment for New Cos. Use average net profits of preceding years to calculate spending.
    Applicability Period Applies before the completion of three financial years for companies.

  • 6th April 2024 | Prelims Daily with Previous Year Questions

    [WpProQuiz 1641]

    [WpProQuiz_toplist 1641]

    UPSC 2024 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)

  • [5 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Revisit these sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

    [5 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Revisit these sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

    PYQ Relevance:
    Mains: 
    Q) What is meant by the term ‘constitutional morality’? How does one uphold constitutional morality? (UPSC IAS/2019) 
    Q) What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? (UPSC IAS/2016)

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims:  Governance; Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023;

    Mains:  Governance;  Issues related to the section in Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS); 

    Mentor comments: In December 2023, the Indian Parliament enacted three new criminal codes. The Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 is the principal law on criminal offenses in India. The stated aim of the new three legislations is to ‘decolonize’ criminal laws of the British era. Currently, ‘Organised crime’ and ‘acts of terrorism’ are not covered under IPC.  Acts of terrorism are covered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA).  Organized crime is covered by state laws such as the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act, 1999 (MCOCA), and similar laws are enacted by various states. Hence, there was a demand for a single platform for this code. However, the designed law too has its challenges which need to be revisited considering the diversity of society and its demands.

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the news? 

    The three new criminal laws that were passed by Parliament in 2023 will come into effect from July 1, 2024, according to a notification by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

    About the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023:
    The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam that will replace the Indian Penal Code, 1860; Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898; and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, respectively, received President Droupadi Murmu’s assent on December 25, 2023.

    The Laws that need to be revisited:

    1. The issue with Section 106 (Hit-and-Run):
    • The Section 106 provision is part of the BNS, which is set to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, 1860.
      • Section 106(1) provides for a punishment of up to 5 years for causing death by any rash or negligent act not amounting to culpable homicide.
      • Section 106 (2) stipulates a penalty of up to 10 years in jail and a fine for fleeing an accident spot and failing to report the incident to a police officer or a magistrate.
    • This section has become a focal point of discontent, especially among the driving community. Even though the driver reports immediately after the accident, they will be charged under Section 106(1) instead of Section 106(2). 
    1. The issue with Section 112 (petty organized crime):
    • It talks about a group or gang, either singly or jointly, commits any act of theft, snatching, cheating, unauthorized selling of tickets, unauthorized betting or gambling, selling of public examination question papers, or any other similar criminal acts is said to commit a petty organized crime”.
    • The “unauthorized selling of tickets” and “selling of public examination question papers” are not linked with any special Act. However, the phrase ‘any other similar criminal acts’ of the section is more indefinite and open-ended.
    1. Section 104 (No discretion):
    • Section 303 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) mandated the death sentence for a person who murders while undergoing imprisonment for life. This provision was struck down by the Supreme Court in Mithu vs State of Punjab (1983) as it violated Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India. 
    • Section 303 of the IPC has been reinstated as Section 104 of the BNS without rectifying the unconstitutional defect. 
    1. Section 303 of the BNS (Reassessment of Theft Offenses):
    • No reason behind it is considered Non-cognizable: The provision stipulates that for theft cases where the value of the stolen property is less than ₹5,000 and it’s the first conviction, community service is mandated upon the return or restoration of the property. This offense is categorized as non-cognizable.
    • Three Legal issues may arise: 
      • Firstly, if property offenses, of whatever value, are not registered, property offenders will be out of the police radar for surveillance. 
      • Secondly, legal issues may also arise about the return of such property if recovered with some other stolen or looted property.
      • Thirdly, if the stolen property of a value less than ₹5,000 is not returned or restored by the convict as provided for, the only option available to the court will be to award imprisonment which may extend up to 3 years. 

    Way Forward:

    • Need for Comprehensive Coverage: We can initiate consultations with all stakeholders to address concerns and gather diverse perspectives.
    • Need for clear Protocols: Establish a clear and standardized protocol for emergency response, emphasizing the importance of prompt reporting without exposing drivers to potential violence. The law should also clarify the reporting procedure and the evidence required for the drivers to prove their innocence or mitigating factors.
    • Need to maintain Balance: The law should be categorized in different scales based on liabilities and eventually, the punishment should be commensurate with the offense.
    • Need for more research: The study and incorporation of successful models and globally best practices with effective legislation is necessary in the Indian context.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/revisit-these-sections-of-the-bharatiya-nyaya-sanhita/article68029299.ece#:~:text=Section%20106(2)%20of%20the,has%20been%20put%20on%20hol

  • Why Uttarakhand govt wants to evaluate the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods

    Why in the news? 

    Recently, the Uttarakhand government has constituted two teams of experts to evaluate the risk posed by five potentially hazardous glacial lakes in the region.

    Context:

    • The Hazardous Glacial Lakes are prone to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), the kind of events that have resulted in several disasters in the Himalayan states in recent years.
    • The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which operates under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has identified 188 glacial lakes in the Himalayan states that can potentially be breached because of heavy rainfall. Thirteen of them are in Uttarakhand.

    About Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs):

    GLOFs are disaster events caused by the abrupt discharge of water from glacial lakes  large bodies of water that sit in front of, on top of, or beneath a melting glacier. As a glacier withdraws, it leaves behind a depression that gets filled with meltwater, thereby forming a lake. Example: 4 october 2023 GLOFs in Sikkim.

    Factors behind the GLOFs:

    • Avalanches or Landslides: Incidents such as avalanches or landslides can also impact the stability of the boundary around a glacial lake, leading to its failure, and the rapid discharge of water.
    • Due to climate change: Rising surface temperatures across the globe, including India, have increased the risk of GLOFs. Studies have shown that around 15 million people face the risk of sudden and deadly flooding from glacial lakes, which are expanding and rising in numbers due to global warming.
    • Rapid infrastructure development in vulnerable areas has also contributed to the spike in such incidents.
    • Sizable ice chunks in the lake: GLOFs can be triggered by various reasons, including glacial calving, where sizable ice chunks detach from the glacier into the lake, inducing sudden water displacement.

    Why are GLOFs under the spotlight?

    • Increased Frequency of GLOFs: Since 1980, GLOFs have become more frequent in the Himalayan region, particularly in southeastern Tibet and the China-Nepal border area. This indicates a concerning trend of glacial melting and lake formation as per Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research in China
    • Extent of Potential Risk: The analysis by  Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research in China suggests that approximately 6,353 sq km of land could be at risk from potential GLOFs.
    • Regional Impacts: Another analysis conducted by Caroline Taylor, Rachel Carr, Stuart Dunning (Newcastle University, UK), Tom Robinson (University of Canterbury, New Zealand), and Matthew Westoby (Northumbria University, UK) indicates that GLOFs are not just a localized issue but have broader regional impacts.
      • Around 3 million people in India and 2 million in Pakistan are identified as facing the risk of GLOFs, highlighting the potential humanitarian consequences of these events.

    What is the situation in Uttarakhand?

    • Past GLOF events: Uttarakhand has experienced two major GLOF events in recent years. The first occurred in June 2013, affecting large parts of the state, particularly the Kedarnath valley, resulting in significant loss of life.
      • The second event happened in February 2021 in Chamoli district, leading to flash floods due to the bursting of a glacier lake.
    • Categorization of Glacial Lakes: Uttarakhand has 13 glacial lakes categorized into three risk levels: ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.
      • Five highly sensitive lakes fall into the ‘A’ category, including Vasudhara Tal in the Dhauliganga basin (Chamoli district), Maban Lake, Pyungru Lake, and two unclassified lakes in Pithoragarh district.
    • Size and Elevation of High-Risk Lakes: The lakes in the ‘A’ category have areas ranging from 0.02 to 0.50 sq km and are situated at elevations between 4,351 to 4,868 meters above sea level. These characteristics make them particularly vulnerable to glacial lake outburst events.
    • Impact of Rising Temperatures: A 2021 study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Research (PIK) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) suggests that rising surface temperatures could worsen the situation in Uttarakhand.
      • The state’s annual average maximum temperature may increase by 1.6-1.9 degrees Celsius between 2021-2050, potentially exacerbating the risk of GLOFs.

    Conclusion: Uttarakhand government forms expert teams to assess risk from 5 hazardous glacial lakes prone to GLOFs. With rising temperatures and past disasters, urgent action is needed to mitigate potential catastrophic flooding.

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