Category: India

On July 30, 2024, at approximately 5:45 AM IST, a devastating landslide struck the serene village of Vilangad in the Kozhikode district of Kerala, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. This catastrophic event was triggered by relentless heavy rains that have plagued the region, resulting in the tragic loss of at least one life. The landslide mirrored the recent tragedy in Wayanad, revealing a disturbing pattern of natural disasters that have been afflicting the Western Ghats region.

As the early morning light broke, debris comprising soil and stones cascaded down the hills, wreaking havoc on the village. A preliminary assessment conducted by the Geological Survey of India confirmed that the incessant downpour was the primary catalyst for the landslide. The incident was not an isolated occurrence; multiple landslips unfolded across nine different locations in Vilangad, completely obliterating 13 houses and causing varying degrees of damage to many others. The extent of destruction was alarming, with preliminary estimates projecting losses around ₹100 crore, which includes significant damages to infrastructure and private properties.

In the immediate aftermath of this disaster, rescue and relief operations were launched, drawing in a collaborative effort from numerous agencies, including the Indian Army, Navy, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Local authorities, alongside volunteers from various organizations, have tirelessly worked to assist affected families and restore some semblance of order amidst the chaos. However, the situation has been exacerbated by the destruction of about 15 bridges and the crippling disruption of power supply, severely hindering the pace and efficacy of relief efforts in Vilangad.

Communication has emerged as a significant barrier during rescue operations. According to a senior official from the Vanimel Panchayat, the absence of reliable mobile phone connectivity has impeded coordination, with even social media communications facing challenges. “The lack of proper connectivity or any alternate arrangement would impede future relief work in the disaster-hit areas,” the official stated, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure to facilitate timely responses in times of crisis.

The reconstruction of vital bridges and roads has become paramount for restoring vehicle movement in the affected areas. Currently, the only means for locals to traverse the disaster-struck regions involves makeshift pedestrian pathways across temporary bridges. As the Panchayat authorities grapple with the immediate challenges of post-disaster recovery, an engineering team is conducting thorough assessments to gauge the total damage incurred. The urgency of these evaluations is underscored by the need for rehabilitation aid from the Disaster Management Authority.

While the community has witnessed an outpouring of support from various charity organizations willing to assist with financial resources to rebuild homes for the affected families, the logistical challenges remain daunting. The process of identifying suitable land for reconstruction and completing building works is expected to take several months. Until then, temporary accommodations will be necessary for those displaced by the disaster. K. Vinodan, the Panchayat Secretary, noted that the community has been fortunate to receive generous donations that have enabled the provision of food, medicines, and clothing to those housed in relief camps. “Stranded people in various villages are also under care now by supplying all essential provisions in the form of kits,” he stated.

The broader implications of this landslide extend beyond the immediate destruction and loss of life; they reflect a growing vulnerability within the region to natural disasters exacerbated by climate change. As communities face these recurring challenges, the need for resilient infrastructure and effective disaster management strategies has never been more pressing. With the spotlight often shining on larger incidents, like the catastrophic Meppadi landslide, it is crucial that smaller but equally devastating events in villages like Vilangad receive the focused attention and support they need for recovery and rebuilding.

In conclusion, the landslide in Vilangad stands as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters in the region. As the community grapples with the aftermath, it is vital that both local and state authorities prioritize disaster preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and community support to mitigate the impacts of future calamities. The road to recovery may be long and fraught with challenges, but with collective effort and a commitment to building resilience, the people of Vilangad can emerge from this crisis stronger and more united than ever before.                        

Source:

www.thehindu.com

On the morning of July 16, 2024, a devastating landslide struck Shirur in the Ankola taluk of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, at approximately 8:30 AM IST. This catastrophic event claimed the lives of at least nine individuals, while two others remain missing amidst the debris and the nearby Gangavalli River. The disaster unfolded due to a combination of heavy rainfall and ongoing construction work by the National Highways Authority of India, raising critical questions about safety and preparedness in landslide-prone areas.

The Geological Survey of India conducted a preliminary investigation, attributing the landslide’s occurrence to the excessive rain coupled with the construction activities. The landslide not only resulted in tragic loss of life but also obstructed National Highway 66, a crucial route connecting Ankola and Kumta. This vital roadway remained closed until August 1, when it was finally reopened to traffic. The aftermath of the landslide saw frantic search and rescue operations, which were hampered by the heavy rains that initially plagued the area. Reports indicated that a lorry driver from Kerala tragically lost his life when the landslide struck while he was resting in his truck along the roadside.

In a troubling turn of events, the government of Karnataka suspended active search operations on July 29, citing unsafe conditions in the Gangavalli River for diving. However, efforts were reignited in September, leading to the recovery of the lorry driver’s body. The initial search had seen multiple agencies involved, including the Indian Army and Navy, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Karnataka Fire and Emergency Services. Despite their valiant efforts, only a fraction of those washed away could be retrieved, underscoring the chaotic and tragic nature of this disaster.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited the site and expressed condolences, announcing financial compensation of ₹5 lakh (approximately $6,000) for the families of the victims. Local leaders, including A. K. M. Ashraf and Satish Krishna Sail, also mobilized support in the area, demonstrating the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis. The scene of devastation in Shirur reverberated through seven districts along the Western Ghats, leaving residents in panic and fear of further incidents.

Remarkably, this disaster is not an isolated event; it follows a distressing trend in the region. Just two weeks after the Shirur landslide, Wayanad in Kerala experienced a similar calamity, raising alarms about the recurring nature of such disasters in this vulnerable region. Historical data reveals that Uttara Kannada district has been plagued by landslides, with a staggering 439 incidents recorded between 2009 and 2021—the highest in Karnataka. This alarming statistic is further compounded by a 2022 advisory report from the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), which explicitly categorized Ankola as a “Landslide Susceptible Zone.” Such classifications underscore the pressing need for enhanced disaster preparedness and response strategies.

The recurring nature of landslides in this area, combined with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events attributed to climate change, calls for immediate action. The tragic events in Shirur serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust disaster management frameworks and comprehensive risk assessments in landslide-prone zones. As communities rally together to recover from this tragedy, it is imperative for authorities and stakeholders to prioritize the development of effective mitigation strategies to safeguard lives and property in the face of mounting environmental challenges.

In conclusion, the landslide in Ankola is not just a local disaster; it is a clarion call for collective action and systemic change in disaster preparedness. As we reflect on the loss and suffering experienced by the victims’ families, let us also focus on the necessary steps that must be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future. The time for action is now, as we strive to create safer and more resilient communities in the face of an ever-changing climate.                                                                    

Source:

frontline.thehindu.com

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) today approved a $170 million policy-based loan to improve India’s health system preparedness and capacity to respond to future pandemics.
The Strengthened and Measurable Actions for Resilient and Transformative Health Systems will support the government’s National Health Policy 2017, which aims to provide quality healthcare services to all.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us valuable lessons and adoption of several innovative practices that would significantly strengthen pandemic preparedness and response capacities, if consolidated, sustained, and institutionalized. ADB has been working with the Government of India to strengthen its health system and adopt transformative solutions,” said ADB Senior Health Specialist Sonalini Khetrapal. “This policy-based loan will help fill the gaps in policy, legislative, and institutional governance and structures and contribute to India’s goal of providing universal access to quality and affordable health care services to strengthen pandemic preparedness and response.”
The program will strengthen disease surveillance systems to effectively respond to public health threats. It will set up laboratory networks for infectious disease surveillance at the state, union, and metropolitan levels. It will also support the establishment of robust data systems to monitor and coordinate national health programs for the poor, women, and other vulnerable groups. The program will improve the governance and coordination of India’s One Health approach, its multisector response to emerging infectious diseases.
ADB will support policy reforms that will ensure there are adequate and competent health professionals and workers. This includes legislation that will regulate and maintain standards of education, services and professional conduct of nurses, midwives, allied workers, and doctors. The program will help public health and health management teams deployed in some states to support public health functions and improve service delivery.
The program will help manage integrated public health laboratories in five states and district critical care hospital blocks to improve services for infectious diseases and critical illnesses. It will assist the intersectoral governing body and multisector task force in establishing green and climate-resilient healthcare facilities. Innovative solutions for service delivery would also be supported.
Source:
Asian Development Bank

Climate change represents a major global challenge of the twenty-first century, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warning of increased frequency and severity of extreme temperature events. This shift in climate conditions is impacting all sectors and populations, contributing to issues such as heat fatigue and heat stroke. Proactive measures are urgently needed to mitigate these impacts and adapt to the changing climate.
Uttar Pradesh, located in the Indo-Gangetic plain, experiences a diverse range of climatic conditions. The state faces severe heat waves from March to June, particularly intense in April when daytime temperatures often exceed 40°C. As temperatures rise throughout March, there is a noticeable variation of over 15°C between the highest and lowest temperatures. By May and June, temperatures can soar above 46°C, leading to extremely hot conditions, especially in Southwest Uttar Pradesh, including the Bundelkhand region.
In response to these severe heat conditions, the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (UP SDMA) has developed the Uttar Pradesh State Heat Action Plan 2024. The preparation for this plan began in August 2023, with implementation starting in February 2024. The plan aims to address the health risks posed by extreme temperatures, enhance public and stakeholder awareness, promote protective behaviours, and reduce heat-related morbidity and mortality through early warning and communication systems.
The Heat Action Plan is a crucial policy document outlining processes, responsibilities, early warning systems, and response mechanisms for managing heatwaves. It provides a framework for various departments and organizations to coordinate their efforts in protecting communities from the adverse effects of excessive heat.
Purpose and Strategies of the Heat Action Plan
The primary goal of the Heat Action Plan is to create a comprehensive framework for managing extreme heat events. This includes developing heat health communication strategies targeted at vulnerable populations most at risk of heat-related illnesses. The plan also emphasizes the establishment of an inter-departmental coordination framework to ensure effective collaboration among different agencies. This multidimensional approach aims to enhance the overall resilience of communities to extreme heat.

• Capacity Building and Training
  Capacity building is a key component of the Heat Action Plan. On February 20, 2024, UP SDMA organized an interdepartmental workshop involving state departments, UNICEF, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to discuss heatwave preparedness. A subsequent training program on March 1, 2024, targeted district-level officials from the revenue, health, and labor departments, focusing on effective heatwave management at the district level.
• Information, Education, and Communication (IEC)
  UP SDMA employs a multifaceted approach to public awareness through print, electronic, and social media channels. Various IEC materials, including pamphlets, posters, advertisements, and short videos, have been developed to educate the public about heatwave precautions and treatments for heat-related illnesses. Approximately 12.4 lakh self-sticking posters have been distributed across Uttar Pradesh, and a short-animated video on heatwaves has been disseminated through social media to boost community awareness.
• Awareness Programs and Community Engagement
  Several initiatives have been undertaken to increase heatwave management awareness. These include the Community-Based Disaster Management Training Programme, Chief Minister School Safety Programme, and a one-day disaster risk management training for school teachers and local officials. These programs aim to empower participants as master trainers, enhancing community resilience and disaster risk management throughout Uttar Pradesh.
• Collaboration with NGOs and Civil Society
  UP SDMA is working with non-governmental and civil society organizations to improve infrastructure and response capabilities. A coordination meeting in April 2024, chaired by the Vice Chairperson of UP SDMA, invited feedback and suggestions from national and state NGOs, fostering a collaborative environment for disaster management.
  With all these efforts the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority has established a robust system for managing heatwave challenges. This approach ensures transparent, accountable, and efficient implementation of heatwave management strategies across districts. Through effective coordination and proactive measures, UP SDMA aims to safeguard the well-being of communities in Uttar Pradesh against the adverse effects of extreme heat.
  Source:
  UP SDMA

Every year on June 5th, World Environment Day (WED) captures global attention, spotlighting critical environmental challenges. This significant day, coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), serves as a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide. In 2024, the theme “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration” focused on the urgent need for land restoration, addressing desertification, and building resilience against drought.
This theme resonated deeply with the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), reflecting the state’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. Their World Environment Day celebrations were a powerful demonstration of Kerala’s dedication to fostering a sustainable future. Through various initiatives and events, KSDMA showcased its proactive approach to restoring degraded lands and promoting practices that ensure long-term environmental health and community well-being.
A Day of Action and Awareness
The day commenced with the planting of saplings at KSDMA’s office, symbolizing a commitment to nurturing the environment. This act, led by Dr. Sekhar L Kuriakose, Member Secretary of KSDMA, was joined by Chief Manager Mr. Jayachandran A., Administrative Manager Mr. Jose A., Office Manager Mr. Ajmal S., and other members of the KSDMA family. The planting event set a positive tone for the day’s activities, highlighting the importance of individual and collective action in environmental conservation.
Following the planting, KSDMA members gathered for an oath-taking ceremony, reinforcing their shared responsibility towards protecting and restoring the environment. The oath served as a reminder of the crucial role that everyone plays in combating environmental degradation.
KSDMA Talk Series: Insights into Land Restoration and Sustainable Practices
In the afternoon, KSDMA hosted an enlightening online session as part of their ongoing Talk Series. Moderated by Arya Krishnan, Environment Planner, and supported by Amrutha, Hazard Analyst (Environment), the session featured two distinguished speakers: Mr. Anandan Pokkudan and Ms. Vani Vijith.
Session 1: Mangrove Restoration and Conservation in Kerala
The first session was a deep dive into the vital role of mangroves in Kerala, led by Mr. Anandan Pokkudan, a dedicated Mangrove Conservator and the son of the legendary environmentalist Mr. Kallen Pokkudan, who is widely recognized as “The Mangrove Man of India.” Mr. Pokkudan began by recounting his father’s pioneering efforts in mangrove conservation, which laid the foundation for Kerala’s ongoing commitment to protecting these crucial ecosystems. He emphasized that mangroves are not just trees growing along the coast but are integral to the region’s coastal protection, marine biodiversity, and disaster resilience.
Mr. Pokkudan highlighted the numerous challenges faced in conserving mangroves, including urbanization, industrialization, and climate change. Despite these hurdles, he stressed the immense potential of mangroves as nature-based solutions to mitigate the impact of natural disasters, such as cyclones and coastal erosion. He concluded by urging the audience to continue advocating for mangrove restoration and to recognize their importance in maintaining ecological balance and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Session 2: Organic Paradise in Kerala – A True Model
The second session was led by Ms. Vani Vijith, a passionate eco-farmer and environmental activist. As the co-founder of Prakrithi Jaiva Kalavara, Ruchira Prakrithi Foods, and Vasu Jaivaganam, Ms. Vijith shared her remarkable journey of transforming her 4.5-acre farm in Haripad, Alappuzha District, into a flourishing, sustainable ecosystem. Her farm, which hosts thousands of trees, a diverse range of crops, and various livestock, stands as a living testament to the power of sustainable agricultural practices.
Ms. Vijith’s session provided the audience with valuable insights into the practicalities of organic farming, from biodiversity conservation to effective water resource management. She discussed the challenges she faced, such as maintaining soil fertility, managing pests without chemicals, and ensuring a steady income, all while adhering to eco-friendly practices. Her experience demonstrated that sustainable farming is not just an agricultural practice but a holistic approach to living that aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Through her work, Ms. Vijith has shown that it is possible to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that benefits both the environment and the community, serving as an inspiring model for others to follow.
Looking Forward:
Building Resilience through Knowledge Sharing
World Environment Day 2024 at KSDMA not only celebrated the environment but also laid the groundwork for future initiatives. The authority plans to continue its focus on environmental protection and disaster resilience through knowledge-sharing programs, workshops, conferences, and public events. By integrating environmental education with disaster management, KSDMA aims to mitigate the impact of environmental disasters and promote sustainable development in Kerala.
The day’s events underscored the critical need for collective action in protecting the environment. As echoed by the organizers, including Dr. Midhila Mallika, State Project Officer, “Together, we can make a difference for our planet.”
Source:
Kerla State Disaster Management Authority

On May 26, 2024, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) took decisive action in response to the impending landfall of Severe Cyclonic Storm “Remal,” which was expected to strike at midnight. In a well-coordinated effort, a total of 14 NDRF teams were strategically deployed across nine vulnerable districts in West Bengal. These districts include Hooghly, Howrah, South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, Kolkata, Murshidabad, and Nadia.
The NDRF’s swift mobilization reflects the urgency and gravity of the situation. Each of the selected districts is known to be particularly susceptible to the devastating effects of cyclones, and the NDRF’s presence was essential to ensure the safety of residents. The deployment included multiple teams in critical areas, with three teams positioned in South 24 Parganas, two in North 24 Parganas, two in Purba Medinipur, and two in Paschim Medinipur, while other districts received at least one team each.
In addition to these initial deployments, the NDRF also prepared additional teams that were placed on high alert, ready to move at short notice if the situation demanded. This readiness underscores the force’s commitment to providing rapid and effective disaster response.
Since the issuance of the early warning from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the NDRF has been working closely with both state and district administrations. The teams have been actively involved in evacuating residents from vulnerable areas to safer locations, such as cyclone shelters. They have also been engaged in raising awareness among local communities about the necessary preventive measures to minimize risks during the storm.
The headquarters of the NDRF has been closely monitoring the development of Cyclone Remal and maintaining coordination at all levels to ensure a seamless response. The proactive measures taken by the NDRF serve as a testament to their preparedness and dedication to safeguarding lives and property in the face of natural disasters.
As Cyclone Remal loomed, the efforts of the NDRF provided a sense of security and assurance to the people of West Bengal. Their swift deployment and coordination highlight the importance of disaster preparedness and the vital role that the NDRF plays in mitigating the impacts of such catastrophic events.
Source:
NDRF

Recent data reveals that India has suffered significantly from weather-related disasters, accounting for 54 million out of the 82.1 million people affected in South Asia between 2019 and 2023. According to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), citing data from the Center for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED), India incurred over $56 billion in damages during this period. This figure represents the majority of the $59.2 billion in damages across South Asia and nearly a quarter of the $230 billion in damages across the Asia Pacific region.
The report highlights that India also accounted for 10,000 of the 11,995 weather-related deaths in South Asia, making up over two-fifths of the 23,525 deaths in the Asia Pacific region. The Central and West Asian regions recorded the second-highest death toll at 4,723 during this period.
ADB’s climate envoy, Warren Evans, emphasized the increasing risks posed by climate change and noted that the bank is working with developing countries to mitigate and manage these risks. Evans highlighted ADB’s efforts to strengthen the capacity of communities and financial systems to address these challenges.
India has been proactive in addressing climate change, setting ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The country updated its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in August 2022, after achieving its 2015 commitments ahead of schedule. By 2023, India had surpassed its target of having 40% of its installed power capacity from non-fossil fuels, reaching 43%. India also reduced the carbon intensity of its economy by 33% between 2005 and 2019.
Despite these efforts, India maintains that its historical contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions is minimal, accounting for only a fraction of global emissions despite having 17% of the world’s population. The country continues to advocate for equitable climate action based on principles of justice and shared responsibilities.
Source:
Livemint.com

The first five months of 2024 have seen a series of extreme weather events in India, including record-breaking heatwaves in the north and devastating floods and landslides in the northeast, raising concerns among climate scientists and the public alike. Earth system scientist Raghu Murtugudde from IIT-Bombay attributes these extremes to a combination of climate change, El Niño, and the aftermath of the Hunga Tonga volcanic eruption in January 2022.
Northern India has experienced sweltering heatwaves, with temperatures soaring to 52.9°C in Delhi—a record high. Vimal Mishra, a professor at IIT Gandhinagar, described this summer as potentially the worst in 120 years, with temperatures exceeding expectations by three to four degrees across a densely populated region. The heatwave, exacerbated by the urban heat island effect in cities like Delhi, has caused widespread public health concerns, power shortages, and water crises.
The extreme temperatures have also led to an increase in fire-related incidents and placed immense pressure on the region’s power and water resources. Delhi recorded its highest-ever power demand and driest May in a decade, while cities like Rohtak and Prayagraj registered all-time high temperatures.
Simultaneously, the northeast has been hit by flash floods and landslides, affecting over 600,000 people. Cyclone Remal, fueled by the warming Bay of Bengal, triggered these disasters. Murtugudde explained that late-season cyclones and shifting monsoon patterns are linked to ocean warming and wind changes caused by El Niño.
The unprecedented heatwaves are part of a broader pattern affecting South and Southeast Asia, made more likely by climate change, according to the World Weather Attribution group. The Copernicus Climate Change Service reported April 2024 as the warmest on record globally, marking the 11th consecutive month of record-breaking global temperatures.
As India braces for the monsoon season, scientists expect some relief with the predicted onset of La Niña, though they caution that the cooling effects may take time to manifest. The extreme weather conditions underscore the urgent need for climate action and adaptation measures to address the growing impacts of climate change.
Source:
Thehindu.com