Mains Daily Question
Oct. 24, 2023
Q1. What are Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)? How do they pose a threat to life and property in the Himalayan Regions? Mention the measures to mitigate the effects of such extreme weather events. (10M/150W)
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Approach: Introduction: Explain why the Himalayan zone is prone to hazards. Body: Heading 1: What are Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)? Heading 2: How do they pose a threat to life and property in the Himalayan Regions? Heading 3: Measures to mitigate the effects of such extreme weather events: Conclusion: Mention government schemes and programs. |
Answer:
A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) is a release of meltwater from a moraine or ice-dammed glacial lake due to dam failure. GLOFs often result in major hazard like catastrophic flooding downstream which can result in significant loss of life. GLOFs have three main features:
- Sudden releases of water.
- Rapid events, lasting hours to days.
- Large downstream river discharges.
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GLOFs: Threat to life and property in the Himalayan Regions: |
- Climate Change: Melting glaciers, accelerated by climate change, lead to the formation or expansion of glacial lakes, making them potential threats.
- Unstable Moraines and Dams: These lakes form behind unstable moraines or natural dams, which can be easily breached.
- For example, Kedarnath floods, 2013
- Sudden Floods: The abrupt release of water causes massive floods, washing away homes and infrastructure.
- Landslides: The force of the water triggers landslides and rockfalls.
- Sedimentation: Flooding leads to erosion, sedimentation, and clogging up of rivers and streams.
- For example, 2014 GLOF in Sikkim caused extensive damage to hydropower projects.
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Measures to Mitigate GLOFs: |
- Risk Zonation: Identify high-risk areas and develop necessary risk mitigation measures, including surveys, maps, and models.
- For example, Government has developed the ‘Guidelines for Preparation of Disaster Management Plans for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF)’.
- Early Warning System: Establish a network of sensors to monitor glacial lakes and provide early warnings to affected communities.
- Use of Technology: Develop remote sensing and GIS-based tools to monitor changes in glacial lakes and surroundings.
- Codes for Construction Activities: Regulate construction activities in high-risk areas.
- For example, NDMA developed the ‘Guidelines for the Construction of Earthquake Resistant Buildings’.
- Capacity Building: Develop skills and resources, partner with the private sector and NGOs, and create innovative solutions.
- For example, National Centre for Disaster Management provide training and capacity building programs.
- Channeling Potential Floods: Develop infrastructure to divert floodwaters away from communities and infrastructure.
Management of GLOFs is essential due to their potential for devastation and the multi-faceted challenges they present. By adopting comprehensive management approaches, we can reduce the risks associated with GLOFs, protect lives and infrastructure, and enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities in the face of these natural hazards.
