DEHRADUN- Dehradun-based think tank SDC Foundation has unveiled its eighth report, and the fifth of this year, as part of the Uttarakhand Disaster and Accident Synopsis (UDAS) series.
The monthly report aims to document and compile major natural calamities and accidents occurring in Uttarakhand, relying on credible Hindi and English newspapers and news portals for information.
Anoop Nautiyal, the founder of SDC, emphasizes that the UDAS report will serve as a valuable resource for political leaders, policymakers, officials, researchers, educational institutions, civil society organizations, and media outlets.
By shedding light on significant incidents, UDAS can facilitate policy development to reduce losses caused by accidents and disasters in Uttarakhand.
According to the May 2023 UDAS Report, there were no major natural disasters or road accidents in the state during the month.
However, new research conducted by Assistant Professor Vipin Kumar from the Department of Geology at Doon University has brought attention to the Joshimath landslide.
The study suggests that in the event of an earthquake similar to those in Chamoli and Uttarkashi, the land in the affected area of Joshimath could subside or move by 20 to 21 meters.
The report also highlights two concerning incidents.
The Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, has experienced a tilt of 6 to 10 degrees, while cracks have appeared in the popular tourist spot Tiffin Top in Nainital, leading to its closure.
The UDAS Report provides comprehensive information on the research conducted by Dr. Vipin Kumar, indicating the vulnerability of Joshimath. Based on rainfall, sewage, and earthquake data, the research suggests that an earthquake of magnitude 6 or higher could result in significant land subsidence in Joshimath.
It further notes that cracks have started to appear in houses previously considered safe, raising concerns among the local community.
Protests organized by the Joshimath Bachao Sangharsh Samiti (JBSS) on May 11, 2023, demanded action to protect the town and halt the construction work on the Helang Marwari bypass. The construction had been halted due to building cracks earlier this year.
The report also underscores the occurrence of cracks in Tiffin Top, a prominent tourist destination in Nainital. Known for its stunning Himalayan views, Nainital has a history of landslides, with a major incident claiming 151 lives in 1880.
Additionally, the UDAS Report mentions the tilt observed in the Tungnath Temple, with a 6-10 degree tilt recorded in the main temple and up to 10 degrees in smaller structures within the complex. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has alerted the central government about this issue.
Highlighting the importance of disaster management in Uttarakhand, Anoop Nautiyal recommends the adoption of the Odisha model, which has garnered praise from the United Nations.
Given the state's ecological sensitivity and the likelihood of large-scale landslides and earthquakes, strengthening the disaster management system, particularly in mountainous regions, is crucial.
The recent success of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) in saving lives during the Balasore train tragedy serves as an exemplary demonstration of the model's effectiveness.
As Uttarakhand faces ongoing challenges related to disasters and natural calamities, the UDAS Report aims to provide valuable insights and contribute to the formulation of proactive measures to mitigate risks and enhance preparedness.
