Question

Document a case of a disaster that hit your region in the past, highlighting its effects on various human activities.

Answer 1

Case Study: Chamoli Glacier Disaster, Uttarakhand (2021)

Disaster: Glacier-related flood
Place: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
Date: 7 February 2021

On 7 February 2021, a large mass of rock and ice broke away in the Nanda Devi region of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. The falling material caused a sudden flood in the Rishiganga and Dhauliganga river valleys. The disaster affected several villages and damaged important infrastructure in the mountainous region.

Effects on Human Activities

1. Loss of life: Many people, including workers at nearby hydroelectric projects, lost their lives or went missing.
2. Damage to houses and settlements: Houses and other structures in the affected areas were damaged by the sudden flow of water, rocks and debris.
3. Impact on electricity generation: The Rishiganga and Tapovan hydroelectric projects were severely damaged. This affected electricity generation and caused major economic losses.
4. Disruption of transport: Roads and bridges were damaged, making movement of people and transportation of goods difficult.
5. Impact on livelihoods: Local people who depended on farming, tourism, construction and other activities faced difficulties and loss of income.
6. Disruption of communication and services: Damage to roads and infrastructure made it difficult for rescue teams to reach affected areas and for essential services to be provided.
7. Environmental impact: Large amounts of rock, ice and debris changed the river channels and damaged the surrounding natural environment.