UPSC Mains 2016 GS1 Q14 — Geophysical Phenomena
"The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides." Discuss the causes and suggest suitable measures of mitigation. (Answer in 200 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discusssuggest
- Scope keywords
- Himalayashighly pronelandslidescausesmeasures of mitigation
- Implicit sub-parts
- The unique geomorphological and tectonic reasons that make the Himalayas more vulnerable than other mountain ranges like the Western Ghats.
- The role of anthropogenic activities in exacerbating natural fragility.
- Structural versus non-structural mitigation strategies tailored for high-altitude terrain.
- Common pitfalls
- Failing to mention the 'young' and 'tectonically active' nature of the Himalayas specifically.
- Focusing only on natural causes while ignoring human-induced factors like unplanned tourism and road widening (Char Dham project context).
- Providing generic disaster management tips (e.g., 'plant more trees') instead of technical solutions like retaining walls, rock bolting, or early warning systems.
- Not referencing specific recent examples such as Joshimath, Wayanad (as a contrast), or Himachal Pradesh floods.
- Dimensions required
- Geological/TectonicClimatological (Cloudbursts/Climate Change)Anthropogenic/DevelopmentalPolicy/Institutional (NDMA guidelines)Technological (Remote sensing/GIS)
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate approximately 40 words to the introductory geological context and tectonic setting. Spend 80 words on a balanced discussion of natural and man-made causes. Devote the final 80 words to a multi-pronged mitigation strategy, ensuring a mix of engineering solutions and policy-level reforms.
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