DISASTER IN UTTARAKHAND
Causes , effects and solutions of this disaster
Disaster in Uttarakhand
. Uttarakhand is a state in the northern part of India . It is often referred to as the "Land of the gods" .
. Due to the many hindu temples and piligrimage centres found throughout the state. .Uttarakhand is known for its natural beauty of the Himalayas the Bhabar and Terai .
. On 9 November 2000, this 27th state of India was created from the Himalayan and adjoining northwestern districts of Uttar pradesh .
Reasons for the disaster
. It is man-made factors that have compounded the scale of the disaster.
.Unabated expansion of hydro-power projects and construction of roads to accommodate ever-increasing tourism,
. Especially religious tourism, are also major causes for the unprecedented scale of devastation .
.The Chief Minister of the mountainous state says that the exact number of deaths in the calamity will never be known as estimates of the actual casualties vary from hundreds to several thousands.
.One senior official claims that the death toll could exceed 10,000. According to state officials, 3,000 people are still missing from the region.
.Steps taken by the government
i. Govt (Centre and State together) should work towards infrastructure overhaul. Move all physical structures away from the banks of Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Mandakini and all other major streams and gorges.
ii. ii. Improve road facilities, widen the bridges and roads and have good pavement. Place rock catching mesh where there is likelihood of landslides. Provide vehicle parking bays every 25kms distance. Provide earth movers and bulldozers at important spots where major landslides occur every year or every two years.