Cloudburst and Flash Flood Survey in Himalayan States

NDMA Survey in Himalayan States

Cloudburst and Flash Flood Survey in Himalayan States: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) with the Jammu & Kashmir State Disaster Management Authority (J&K SDMA) has initiated a survey on cloudbursts and flash floods in Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. The exercise uses ISRO’s satellite mapping to study vulnerable zones in inaccessible terrains.

Static GK fact: NDMA was established in 2005 under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, chaired by the Prime Minister of India.

Objectives of the Survey

The survey aims to trace the origin of sudden water surges in rivers and glacial lakes. Satellite imagery is being deployed to monitor high-altitude Himalayan regions. By combining geological, hydrological, and climatic data, the survey seeks to recommend preventive and remedial strategies.

Static GK fact: India has more than 2,000 glacial lakes in the Himalayan belt, many of which are prone to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).

Causes of Cloudbursts and Flash Floods

Cloudbursts occur when extreme rainfall happens in a very short span, leading to water accumulation. In the Himalayas, GLOFs triggered by melting glaciers, micro-seismic activity, and fractured rock formations worsen the problem. Climate change accelerates glacier melt, making these disasters more frequent.

Recent Impacts in Himalayan States

The Himalayan states have witnessed recurring cloudbursts in recent years. Villages like Dharali in Uttarakhand were buried under slurry and debris. In Ramban and Reasi (J&K), flash floods caused loss of lives and homes. These incidents highlight the vulnerability of settlements in Himalayan foothills.

Static GK Tip: The 2013 Kedarnath floods in Uttarakhand were one of India’s deadliest flash floods, claiming thousands of lives.

Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure

Experts emphasize earthquake-proof buildings, bridges, and hydropower structures in high-risk zones. Japan’s seismic engineering practices are suggested as a model. Restricting construction in landslide-prone areas has reduced risks in states like Sikkim.

Seismicity and Climate Change Link

The Himalayas are a seismogenic region, with micro-earthquakes frequently fracturing rocks. Glacier melting reduces ice thickness, altering lithospheric balance and intensifying seismicity. This combination creates a multi-layered disaster risk in the region.

Future Measures

The survey focuses on early warning systems, glacial lake monitoring, and mapping hazard-prone zones. Combining scientific tools with local community knowledge will strengthen disaster preparedness. Sustainable infrastructure and conservation of forests and rivers remain critical to mitigate risks.

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Cloudburst and Flash Flood Survey in Himalayan States: