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Subject: Disaster Management

  • Kallakkadal: Coastal Flooding Phenomena in Kerala

    Why in the news?

    • Coastal areas of Kerala, including Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram districts, are grappling with flooding caused by high sea waves, known as swell waves or Kallakkadal in Malayalam.
    • The recent swell surge occurred following a low-pressure system originating in the South Atlantic Ocean, leading to the formation of waves reaching heights of up to 11 meters.

    What is Kallakkadal?

    1. Origin and Meaning:
    • Kallakkadal refers to coastal flooding during the (April-May) pre-monsoon season.
    • It is caused by ocean swell waves on the southwest coast of India.
    • The term “Kallakkadal” originates from Malayalam, combining “Kallan” (thief) and “Kadal” (sea), denoting the sea’s unexpected intrusion akin to a thief.
    • In 2012, the term was formally approved by the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
    1. Causes:
    • These waves stem from distant storms, such as hurricanes, generating significant energy transfer from the atmosphere to the water.
    • Kallakkadal typically results from strong winds in the southern Indian Ocean, generating ocean swells that travel northward towards the Kerala coast.

    Features of Kallakkadal

    • This phenomenon occurs mostly during pre-monsoon season and sometimes during post monsoon.
    • It continues for a few days.
    • It inundates the low lying coasts.
    • Initially sea recedes before the surge.
    • During high tide the run-up, water level can reach as much as 3–4 m above Maximum Water Level (MWL).

    How is it distinct from Tsunami?

    • Nature of Phenomenon: Kallakkadal, though often confused with tsunamis, arises from distant storm-generated waves, contrasting with tsunamis triggered by underwater disturbances, typically seismic activities.
    • Clarification: Understanding this distinction is crucial for implementing effective early warning systems and mitigating the impact of coastal hazards.

    PYQ:

    2017: At one of the places in India, if you stand on the seashore and watch the sea, you will find that the sea water recedes from the shore line a few kilometres and comes back to the shore, twice a day, and you can actually walk on the sea floor when the water recedes. This unique phenomenon is seen at-

    (a) Bhavnagar

    (b) Bheemunipatnam

    (c) Chandipur

    (d) Nagapattinam

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The Coastal areas of Kerala recently witnessed the Oceanic Swell Waves locally known as Kallakkadal. In this regard consider the following statements:

    1.    Kallakkadal typically occurs during the spring season (March-April).

    2.    These waves stem from distant storms in the southern Indian Ocean.

    Which of the given statements is/are NOT correct?

    (a) Only 1

    (b) Only 2

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Karnataka approaches Supreme Court over NDRF Funds for Drought Management

    What is the news?

    • The Karnataka government has approached the Supreme Court against the Union government, seeking the release of drought relief funds from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
    • This disagreement marks the second major dispute after alleged ‘injustice’ in tax devolution and other allocations.

    Extent of Drought and Water Scarcity in Karnataka

    • Rainfall Deficit: During the last monsoon season, Karnataka experienced significant rainfall deficits, exacerbating the drought situation and affecting agricultural productivity.
    • Drought conditions: Karnataka faces extensive drought conditions, with 223 out of 236 taluks (mandals) declared as drought-hit areas, resulting in substantial crop loss.
    • Compensation Sought: The state has sought substantial financial assistance from the Centre, amounting to Rs 18,171 crores, to address the damages caused by drought.

    Karnataka’s Writ Petition to the Supreme Court

     

    • Legal Action: Karnataka’s petition under Article 32 of the Constitution seeks relief against the Union government’s alleged inaction in providing financial assistance for drought management.
    • Basis of Petition: The petition argues that the delay in releasing funds violates fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, pertaining to equality before the law and protection of life and personal liberty.

     

    What is National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)?

    • The NDRF is a statutory body constituted under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
    • It supplements State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) of a State, in case of a disaster of severe nature, provided adequate funds are not available in SDRF.
    • The July 2015 guidelines states that natural calamities of cyclone, drought, earthquake, fire, flood, tsunami, hailstorm, landslide, avalanche, cloud burst, pest attack and cold wave and frost will qualify for immediate relief assistance from NDRF.
    • NDRF is managed in the “Public Accounts” under “Reserve Funds not bearing interest”.
    • The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audits the accounts of NDRF.

    Disaster Relief for Indian states

    • Under the 2005 Disaster Management Act, there is no definition of disasters.
    • It can include any event arising from natural or man-made causes that can severely disrupt life for people, going beyond their coping capacity.
    • The 15th Finance Commission introduced a new methodology for state-wise allocations, considering factors like past expenditure, risk exposure, hazard, and vulnerability.

    Institutional Mechanism

    • States have the State Disaster Relief Funds (SDRF).
    • The Centre contributes 75% of the funds (and 90% for Himalayan and NE states) and states contribute the remainder.
    • The total amount is decided as part of the budgetary allocations and released periodically by the Centre.

    In case a state needs the Centre’s assistance, it must follow a procedure:

    1. It should detail the extent of the damage in a memorandum and submit it
    2. If this is acknowledged by Centre, an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) conducts on-ground inspections to survey the damage
    3. A National Executive Team analyses the IMCT report
    4. Based on its recommendations, a High Level Committee shall approve the release of immediate relief from NDRF.

    Additionally, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs oversees the utilisation of NDRF releases.

     

    PYQ:

    2014: Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about National Disaster response fund (NDRF):

    1. NDRF is a part of consolidated fund of India.
    2. Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audits the accounts of NDRF.

    Which among the above statements is/are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • ISRO’s develops 2nd Generation Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT-SG)

    Introduction

    • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has pioneered an innovative Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT) to enhance the safety of fishermen at sea.
    • This second-generation DAT, known as DAT-SG, offers advanced capabilities and features, revolutionizing how emergency messages are communicated from fishing boats.

    About Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT-SG)

    • Operational Since 2010: The initial version of DAT became operational in 2010, enabling fishermen to send emergency messages through a communication satellite.
    • Central Control Station: Messages were received at the Indian Mission Control Centre (INMCC), a central control station, where alert signals were decoded to identify the distressed fishing boat.
    • Coordination with MRCCs: The extracted information was then forwarded to Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) under the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), facilitating coordinated search and rescue operations.
    • Widespread Use: Over 20,000 DATs were deployed and utilized for distress communication.

    Evolution to DAT-SG

    • Technological Advancements: ISRO leveraged advancements in satellite communication and navigation to create the second-generation DAT (DAT-SG).
    • Acknowledgement Feature: DAT-SG now includes an acknowledgement feature, providing assurance to fishermen that their distress alert has been received and that help is on the way.
    • Two-Way Communication: In addition to sending distress signals, DAT-SG can receive messages from control centers. This allows the transmission of advance alerts regarding adverse weather conditions, cyclones, tsunamis, or other emergencies, enabling fishermen to make informed decisions for their safety.
    • Enhanced Fishing Zone Information: DAT-SG also disseminates information about potential fishing zones to fishermen at regular intervals, optimizing their catch and conserving time and fuel.
    • Mobile Connectivity: DAT-SG can be connected to mobile phones via Bluetooth, and messages can be displayed in the fishermen’s native language using a dedicated mobile app.

    Central Control and Coordination

    • Sagarmitra Network: The central control station, INMCC, employs a web-based network management system called Sagarmitra. This system maintains a database of registered DAT-SGs and facilitates real-time access for MRCCs.
    • Real-time Coordination: Sagarmitra enables Indian Coast Guard personnel to swiftly respond to distress calls without delay, enhancing search and rescue operations.
    • Operational 24/7: DAT-SG services are available round-the-clock, ensuring continuous support to fishermen facing emergencies at sea.

    Also read:

    Nabhmitra: Satellite-Based Safety Device for Fishermen

  • IIT-D develops India’s first National Landslide Susceptibility Map

    Introduction

    • In the wake of severe monsoon-triggered landslides, IIT Delhi has developed its first National Landslide Susceptibility Map.

    About National Landslide Susceptibility Map

    • High-Resolution Mapping: The map offers a detailed (100 sq. m resolution) overview of landslide susceptibility across India, including previously unrecognized areas.
    • Revealing New Risk Zones: It highlights traditional high-risk areas and uncovers new regions of concern, broadening the scope of landslide monitoring.
    • Innovative Analysis Method: An ensemble machine learning approach was utilized to enhance prediction accuracy and address data gaps in uncharted regions.
    • Advantages of Ensemble Models: This method effectively combines multiple models to provide a more reliable estimation of landslide risks.

    Data Gathering and Analytical Process

    • Extensive Data Compilation: Researchers collated data on around 150,000 landslide incidents from various sources, including the Geological Survey of India.
    • Identifying Contributing Factors: The team pinpointed 16 critical factors influencing landslide susceptibility, utilizing tools like GeoSadak for remote data collection.

    Implications for Disaster Management

    • Tool for Stakeholders: The map serves as a critical resource for government bodies, disaster management authorities, and organizations focused on landslide mitigation.
    • Enhancing Preparedness and Planning: It will facilitate vulnerability assessment, infrastructure planning, and implementation of mitigation measures.

    Need for such map

    • Persistent Hazard: Landslides, affecting a small but significant portion of India, pose a recurrent threat, especially in hilly regions.
    • Challenges in Management: The localized and sporadic nature of landslides has historically hindered effective tracking and prediction, underscoring the need for a comprehensive mapping solution.

    Future Directions and Public Accessibility

    • Developing an Early Warning System: Building on the map, efforts are underway to create a comprehensive Landslide Early Warning System.
    • Infrastructure Vulnerability Cartogram: A cartogram to identify susceptible infrastructure is also in progress.
    • Public Access and Engagement: The map and its data will be accessible through a web interface, promoting public interaction and awareness.

  • Floods and a ‘preventive measure’ that needs review

    Floods and a 'preventive measure' that needs review - The Hindu

    Central idea 

    Dr. Mani Sivasubramanian emphasizes the long-lasting impact of decisions made after Cyclone Michuang in Chennai, particularly regarding electricity cutoffs. The central idea revolves around the need for accountability in decision-making during crises, highlighting the delicate balance between safety measures and potential hazards for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. The way forward involves a hierarchical approach, periodic reviews, and fixing responsibility for sub-optimal decisions.

    Key Highlights:

    • Dr. Mani Sivasubramanian, a heart surgeon, author, and social entrepreneur, discusses the long-lasting impact of decisions made after Cyclone Michuang in Chennai.
    • Emphasizes the importance of accountability for decisions with visible and hidden consequences.
    • Raises concerns about the practice of prolonged electricity cutoffs after a natural disaster, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly.

    Key Challenges:

    • Balancing the need for safety measures, such as electricity cutoffs during cyclones, with potential hazards like accidents and security concerns.
    • The complexity of decision-making during a crisis, requiring a dynamic and evolving approach.
    • Striking a balance between conservative choices and potential complications due to inaction.

    monsoon, monsoons, floods, flood evacuation, WHO, WHO India, World Health Organization, COVID-19, flood precautions, COVID appropriate behaviours

    Key Terms:

    • Decision accountability
    • Electricity cutoff
    • Vulnerable populations
    • Dynamic balance
    • Cataclysmic disaster
    • Intellectual and analytical judgment

    Key Phrases for good marks in mains:

    • “Consequences of choices should be accounted for.”
    • “Power disruption poses significant hazards, especially for the elderly.”
    • “Decision-making in a crisis is an extreme test of judgment and personal strength.”
    • “Potential cost of mistakes looms large in a decision-maker’s mind.”

    Key Quotes:

    • “There is no objectively ‘safe’ choice; it is a constantly evolving, dynamic balance.”
    • “A bureaucrat should justify and document decisions in real-time for review.”
    • “Complex decision-making should not become a contest of cheap populism.”

    Key Statements:

    • Decision-makers should justify and document choices in real-time.
    • Accountability is crucial, especially when decisions impact millions.
    • Calls for a hierarchy-based approach in decision-making during crises.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Mentions the 2015 floods in Chennai as a reference to the consequences of decision-making during natural disasters.

    Key Facts:

    • In 2021, Tamil Nadu had 13.8 crore people over the age of 60 years.
    • Chennai metropolitan area’s population is estimated to be over 12 million.

    Key Data:

    • 500,000 people in Chennai are above 60 years old, and over 50,000 are aged 80 or above.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Acknowledges the complexity of decision-making during a natural disaster.
    • Emphasizes the need for a balance between safety measures and potential hazards.
    • Advocates for accountability and periodic reviews of decisions.

    Way Forward:

    • Suggests a hierarchy-based approach with scaled levels of responsibility.
    • Proposes involvement of more than one person in major decision-making.
    • Calls for periodic reviews by an oversight team to challenge and reverse questionable choices.
    • Highlights the importance of fixing responsibility for sub-optimal decisions.

  • Opportune moment to rediscover Chennai’s hydrology

    Opportune moment to rediscover Chennai's hydrology - The Hindu

    Central idea 

    The article underscores the recurring floods in Chennai, attributing them to climate change while questioning the extent to which historical human errors and negligence contribute. Emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures, it calls for hydrological mapping, restoration of neglected water bodies, and ecological conservation to achieve flood resilience and sustainable water supply.

    Key Highlights:

    • Climate Change Attribution: Frequent floods in Chennai, attributed to climate change, raise questions about the impact of historical human errors and the effectiveness of conventional wisdom in flood mitigation.
    • Devastating Impact: Neglected irrigation tanks, encroachment on water bodies, and inadequate watershed management contribute to devastating floods, with the 2023 flood considered the worst in 47 years.
    • Need for Comprehensive Measures: The need for comprehensive hydro-elevation mapping, restoration of water bodies, and protection of ecological hotspots is emphasized for flood resilience and sustainable water supply.

    Key Challenges:

    • Historical Neglect: Neglected irrigation tanks and encroachment on water bodies contribute to over 80% runoff, worsening flood impacts.
    • Urban Expansion: Rapid urban expansion in Chennai, without considering ecological hotspots, leads to the loss of water bodies and wetlands.
    • Inadequate Maintenance: Major waterways and drainage systems suffer from heavy encroachments, sludge deposits, and lack of year-long maintenance.

    Key Terms:

    • Hydro-elevation Mapping: Mapping of upstream-downstream watersheds to understand water dynamics and drainage systems.
    • Ecological Hotspots: Areas with high biodiversity and ecological importance, crucial for flood resilience.
    • Storm Water Drain Network: A 2,900-kilometer network designed to manage stormwater runoff in the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) area.

    Key Phrases:

    • “Decode Chennai’s urban and peri-urban hydrology”: Emphasizes the need to understand and intervene in the interconnected hydrological conditions of Chennai.
    • “Converting disaster into opportunity”: Encourages turning flood challenges into an opportunity for sustainable water supply.

    Key Quotes:

    • “Are we hiding behind climate change for all the blunders made so far?”: Questions the tendency to attribute all flood-related issues to climate change.
    • “Have we learned any lessons from past flood events?”: Raises concerns about the lack of corrective measures despite repeated floods.

    Key Examples and References:

    • Chennai’s 3,588 irrigation tanks neglected, contributing to high runoff and flood damage.
    • Loss of water bodies and Pallikaranai marsh land due to rapid urban expansion.
    • The 2023 flood considered the worst in 47 years, highlighting the escalating impact of floods.

    Key Statements:

    • “Chennai city and the CMA can be permanently saved from floods”: Encourages a proactive approach to flood resilience through scientific interventions and ecological protection.
    • “Hiding behind climate change for all accumulated blunders”: Challenges the attribution of all flood-related issues to climate change without addressing historical neglect and errors.

    Key Facts:

    • The CMA to be expanded from 1,189 sq.km to 5,904 sq.km as part of Master Plan III, necessitating protection of ecological hotspots.
    • Rapid urban expansion in Chennai cited as one of the fastest in the country.

    Key Data:

    • 4,000 water bodies in the proposed CMA area, requiring protection from encroachments.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Challenges the effectiveness of conventional approaches and calls for a shift towards scientific and meaningful interventions in water management.
    • Emphasizes the need for a balance between urban expansion and ecological conservation for sustainable flood resilience.

    Way Forward:

    • Comprehensive Mapping: Conduct hydro-elevation mapping to understand water dynamics and drainage systems.
    • Restoration and Protection: Restore water bodies to original or increased capacity, protect ecological hotspots, and enforce “no development zones.”
    • Sustainable Urban Planning: Integrate ecological considerations into urban planning to prevent irreversible damage from urban expansion.

  • How we are rescuing workers trapped in Uttarkashi tunnel

    Uttarakhand tunnel collapse LIVE: Pipeline laid inside to rescue 41 trapped workers | Hindustan Times

    Central idea

    The central idea focuses on the Silkyara Tunnel rescue in Uttarakhand, highlighting diverse worker representation and challenges in Himalayan geology. The strategic use of auger and drift technology plays a crucial role in the efficient rescue operation. The primary goal is the safe return of 41 trapped workers through a unified and adaptive approach.

    Key Highlights:

    • Silkyara Tunnel incident in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, sparks a coordinated effort by government and private agencies.
    • 41 workers trapped in a partially collapsed tunnel, representing a diverse group from different states.
    • Technological advancements, communication, and transportation are leveraged for the rescue operation.
    • Involvement of multiple government bodies, including the Prime Minister’s Office and various ministries.

    Key Challenges:

    • Risks and challenges associated with the rescue operation, including the unpredictable nature of Himalayan geology.
    • The need to balance urgency with caution in the rescue efforts.
    • Varying degrees of difficulty in deploying machinery due to the risk factor and geological complexities.

    Key Terms and Phrases for value addition:

    • Silkyara Tunnel
    • “All of government” approach
    • Himalayan geology
    • Simultaneity principle
    • Auger technology
    • Drift technology
    • Convergence of capability

    Auger Technology:

    • Definition: Auger technology involves the use of a rotating metal shaft with a blade at the end.
    • Application in Rescue: In the Silkyara Tunnel rescue, auger technology is deployed to scrape or cut debris and earth, creating a path for rescuers.
    • Success: A portion of 22 meters has been successfully negotiated, demonstrating the effectiveness of auger technology.
    • Challenges: Geological impediments have posed challenges, requiring restarting the effort.

    Drift Technology:

    • Definition: Drift technology involves scraping the sides of the tunnel to increase its size and create access.
    • Application in Rescue: Used to widen the tunnel for easier access and maneuverability in the rescue operation.
    • Timing: Top and side boring attacks on the tunnel alignment will commence in due course.
    • Redundancy: Provides a redundant approach to ensure the success of the rescue operation.

    Key Facts and Data:

    • 41 workers trapped inside a partially collapsed tunnel.
    • Efforts initiated by the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Home Affairs, NDMA, and Uttarakhand SDMA.
    • Five rescue approaches with time frames ranging from five-six days to eight weeks.

    Critical Analysis:

    • Emphasis on the coordinated efforts involving various government bodies and private sectors.
    • Recognition of the unpredictable nature of Himalayan geology and the associated challenges.
    • Utilization of advanced technologies such as auger and drift technology to address the complexities.
    • Highlighting the psychological and social impacts on workers and the provision of psycho-social specialists.
    • Acknowledgment of the importance of enabling convergence of capability among competent agencies.

    Way Forward:

    • Continued focus on simultaneous approaches to expedite the rescue operation.
    • Prioritizing the horizontal approach using auger technology and drift technology.
    • Recognition of leadership from New Delhi as a crucial factor in ensuring effective coordination.
    • Emphasizing the importance of the safe return of the trapped workers as the primary goal.

  • Cancer, heart disease, diabetes – odd-even scheme is not the answer to pollution woes

    One Health approach

    Central idea

    The article delves into the alarming air pollution crisis in Delhi and the National Capital Region, highlighting global and local concerns. It emphasizes the health impact of air pollution, particularly on vulnerable groups like children, and evaluates India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and potential strategies for effective air quality management.

    Key Highlights:

    • Air Quality Crisis: Delhi and the National Capital Region face a severe air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 500, prompting various restrictions and interventions.
    • Global Air Pollution Concerns: Air pollution is a global issue, affecting low- and middle-income countries the most. The World Health Assembly Resolution 68.8 emphasizes addressing the health impact of air pollution, highlighting its role in millions of global deaths.
    • India’s Efforts: The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched in 2019 aims to reduce PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024 through diverse interventions targeting vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, waste management, and more.
    Let’s revise for prelims

     

    India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)

     

    Ministry Under Which NCAP Operates: Operated under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

     

    Establishment and Jurisdiction: Launched in 2019 to address air pollution and improve air quality. Encompasses various interventions to reduce pollution levels.

     

    Objective: Aims to achieve a 20-30% reduction in concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 by 2024 (base year, 2017).

     

    Key Components: Focuses on reducing vehicular pollution through regulatory norms. Promotes public transport and enhances infrastructure. Addresses industrial emissions, waste management, and stubble burning.

     

    Legal Framework: Aligned with existing environmental laws and regulations. Operates within the framework of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

    Challenges:

    • Health Impact: Air pollution, laden with pollutants like PM2.5, leads to severe health consequences, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, and neurological disorders.
    • Vulnerability of Children: Children are particularly vulnerable due to developing lungs, higher exposure, and increased susceptibility to neurotoxic compounds, leading to various health issues.
    • Social Gradient in Exposure: Studies indicate that air pollution often exhibits a social gradient, impacting marginalized communities more, challenging the notion that it affects everyone equally.

    Key Phrases:

    • Air Quality Index (AQI): Measures air pollution levels, categorized into ranges with associated health advisories. Delhi’s AQI touching 500 signifies hazardous air quality.
    • NCAP: India’s National Clean Air Programme, launched to combat air pollution, emphasizing reductions in PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations through diverse strategies.
    • One Health Approach: Recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, urging comprehensive actions to address the impact of land, air, and water use on well-being.

    Analysis:

    • Global Concerns: Nearly 90% of the global population breathes air exceeding prescribed pollution limits, with low- and middle-income countries facing the most significant impact.
    • NCAP Effectiveness: The NCAP outlines specific interventions to combat air pollution, but the effectiveness of measures like the odd-even scheme in Delhi is debated, with studies showing mixed results.

    Key Data:

    • Health Impact: Air pollution contributes to chronic diseases and cancer, with a third of deaths from major diseases linked to air pollution, rivaling the impact of smoking.
    • Global Scenario: Delhi ranked as the most polluted city globally in terms of fine particulate matter, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive air quality management.

    Way Forward:

    • Stringent Standards: Evolve more stringent air quality standards, considering the absence of safe thresholds, especially for particulates and ozone.
    • Airshed-Centric Approach: Transition from city-centric to airshed-centric air quality management, recognizing the local factors affecting pollutant dispersion.
    • Global Cooperation: Leverage international platforms like the G20 to address pollution in the context of climate action and promote a One Health approach globally.

    In essence, the article underscores the critical need for immediate and comprehensive measures to combat the escalating air pollution crisis, emphasizing the global and local impact on health and the environment.

  • Dam Safety Act 2021

    hydel dam safety

    Central Idea

    • India boasts nearly 6,000 large dams, but concerns loom over the safety of these structures, with approximately 80% of them being over 25 years old and posing safety risks.
    • With numerous large dams and hydropower projects, the Himalayas play a crucial role in meeting India’s energy needs.
    • However, the recent incident of a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in North Sikkim has raised alarm bells about the safety of these structures.

    Hydropower boom in the Himalayas

    • As of November 2022, the Himalayan states and Union territories, excluding West Bengal, had 81 large hydropower projects (above 25 MW) in operation, with 26 more under construction.
    • An additional 320 large projects are in the planning stages, according to the Central Electricity Authority under the Union Ministry of Power.

    Discussion: Dam Safety in the Himalayas

    • Vulnerability to Natural Hazards: The Himalayas are highly susceptible to natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and GLOFs due to their complex geological and topographical features. These hazards can jeopardize the integrity of dams and reservoirs.
    • High Population Density: The Himalayan region is densely populated, with communities residing downstream of dams and hydropower projects. A dam failure can have devastating consequences on human lives and property.
    • Ecological Sensitivity: The Himalayas are an ecologically fragile region with unique biodiversity. A dam failure can lead to environmental disasters, impacting delicate ecosystems.

    Repercussions

    • Climate Change: The melting of glaciers due to global warming contributes to the formation of glacial lakes. As these lakes grow, the risk of GLOFs increases, putting downstream infrastructure at risk.
    • Snowball Effects: Landslide dams can lead to impounding of lakes, landslide-induced floods, secondary landslides, channel avulsion, and the formation of flood terraces downstream, impacting communities and infrastructure.
    • Delayed Impacts: Run-of-the-river projects, which often bypass large-scale displacement and forest diversion, have been promoted as environmentally friendly. However, their underground components can disturb geology and geohydrology, leading to indirect displacement and environmental impacts.
    • Aging Infrastructure: Many dams and hydropower projects in the Himalayas are aging, with approximately 80% of them over 25 years old. Proper maintenance and monitoring are essential to ensure their safety.

    Dam Safety Act, 2021 and its Provisions

    • The DSA was introduced in response to dam failures caused by deficient surveillance and maintenance.
    • It establishes key responsibilities and requires the formation of national and state-level bodies for its implementation.
    • The Act outlines the following provisions:
    1. National Committee on Dam Safety: Responsible for overseeing dam safety policies and regulations.
    2. National Dam Safety Authority: Tasked with implementing and resolving state-level disputes.
    3. Chairman of the Central Water Commission (CWC): Heads dam safety protocols at the national level.
    4. State Committee on Dam Safety (SCDS) and State Dam Safety Organisation (SDSO): To be established at the state level.

    Challenges in DSA Implementation

    • Inadequate Risk Assessment: Experts argue that the DSA does not encourage risk-based decision-making and lacks transparency incentives.
    • Transparency Concerns: Dam safety should be a public function, with information readily accessible. However, transparency is impeded when government employees and project engineers dominate national and state bodies, potentially compromising objective decision-making.

    Lessons Learned from Recent Incidents

    • Comprehensive Risk Assessment: Dam safety protocols must include comprehensive risk assessments that consider factors such as climate change, geological stability, and the potential for GLOFs. Periodic reviews yield updated inundation maps and rule curves for reservoir capacity.
    • Hazard Profiling Issues: Hazard risk is influenced by climate change, urbanization, and water usage patterns. Periodic reviews should yield updated inundation maps and rule curves for reservoir capacity. Unfortunately, these reviews are often overlooked or findings are not made publicly available.
    • Standardized Safety Evaluation: The DSA mandates comprehensive dam safety evaluations but lacks standardization in how failures are analyzed and reported.
    • Transparent Reporting: Transparency in dam safety is paramount. The DSA should be implemented rigorously, with an emphasis on transparent reporting of dam failures and safety assessments.
    • Community Involvement: Local communities should be actively engaged in dam safety measures. They can provide valuable insights into the environmental and social impacts of such projects.

    Way Forward

    • Early Warning Systems: Establishing advanced early warning systems that can detect GLOFs and other potential hazards is crucial. These systems can save lives and minimize damage.
    • Regular Maintenance: Aging infrastructure must undergo regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure their continued safety and functionality.
    • International Collaboration: Given the transboundary nature of the Himalayan region, international collaboration on dam safety and disaster management is essential. Neighboring countries should work together to mitigate shared risks.

  • Assistance to States during Natural Disasters: How It Works

    Central Idea

    • In the wake of natural disasters, states often request assistance from the central government.
    • Himachal Pradesh CM recently requested for a special disaster relief package and urged the designation of the calamity as a ‘national disaster.’

    Natural Disaster Mitigation in States

    • Legal Framework: The 2005 Disaster Management Act provides the legal framework for addressing disasters, whether natural or man-made.
    • Defining disaster: It defines a “disaster” as an event causing substantial loss of life, human suffering, property damage, or environmental degradation beyond the community’s coping capacity.
    • National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): The Act established the NDMA, headed by the Prime Minister, and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) led by Chief Ministers. These bodies, along with district-level authorities, form an integrated disaster management setup in India.
    • National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): The Act led to the creation of the NDRF, comprising several battalions or teams responsible for on-ground relief and rescue operations in various states.

    Understanding the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF)

    • Mention in the Act: The NDRF is referenced in the 2005 Disaster Management Act and plays a crucial role in providing disaster relief.
    • State Disaster Relief Funds (SDRFs): States have their own SDRFs, which are the primary funds available for responding to notified disasters. The Central Government contributes 75% to SDRFs in general states and 90% in northeastern and Himalayan states.
    • Utilization of SDRFs: SDRFs are allocated for immediate relief efforts following notified calamities, including cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, fires, floods, tsunamis, and more.
    • Central Assistance: In the event of a severe calamity where state SDRF funds are insufficient, additional central assistance can be provided by the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).

    Who determines a Severe Calamity?

    • Procedure: States follow a specific procedure to classify a calamity as “severe.” This involves submitting a memorandum detailing sector-wise damage and fund requirements. An inter-ministerial central team assesses the damage on-site.
    • Committee Approval: Specific committees review these assessments and submit reports. A High-Level Committee must approve the immediate relief amount to be released from the NDRF.
    • Criteria: The classification of a calamity as “severe” considers factors such as intensity, magnitude, assistance needs, and more.

    Additional Funds for Disaster Mitigation

    • Funds Allocation: Funds for NDRF and SDRFs, allocated for preparedness, mitigation, and reconstruction, are part of budgetary allocations.
    • Financing mechanism: The 15th Finance Commission introduced a new methodology for state-wise allocations, considering factors like past expenditure, risk exposure, hazard, and vulnerability.
    • Utilization: NDRF and SDRF funds are released in two equal instalments, typically with requirements like Utilization Certificates. However, in urgent situations, these requirements can be waived.
    • State Disaster Mitigation Fund (SDMF): This fund supports activities such as forest restoration and public awareness. It received an allocation of Rs 32,030 crore from the 15th Finance Commission.
    • National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF): The NDMF, amounting to Rs 13,693 crore, is dedicated to national disaster mitigation efforts.