REPORTS / MEMIOGRAPH

Natural Disaster: Extent, Response and Management in Himachal Himalaya (1971-2003), D.D. Sharma, Department of Geography, HPU, Shimla - 5

The state of Himachal Pradesh has witnessed significant damages in rainy, winter and summer seasons due to excessive rains/snow, sporadic cloudbursts, flash floods and droughts. Extensive damages are caused to infrastructure like roads, bridges, drinking water supply schemes, irrigation schemes, hydro-electric projects, destruction of forest wealth, washing away of fertile soils, besides taking its toll of human and cattle lives and destruction to private properties. In the state geological hazards, namely earthquakes and landslides are the most critical, as the damage is widespread and not localized. The main suggestion, which emerge from this report is that since the state of Himachal Pradesh lies in zone IV and V of seismic vulnerability map, therefore it should be ensured that BIS building codes are adopted and followed in true spirit. Provision needs to be made to collect information regarding nature and frequencies of natural disasters in the sensitive area in the region through satellite network. While formulating any policy related to natural disaster, people affected by natural disasters should be involved in the process. Information provided by them is of prime significance in the process of modifying or improving various processes involved in disaster management and make them more appropriate and need based. More emphasis should be given to horticulture than agriculture to check landslide incidences in the hilly region.

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