Drawing the line- Information aids public safety, and is not a trigger for panic

Source: The post is based on the article “Drawing the line- Information aids public safety, and is not a trigger for panic” published in “The Hindu” on 28th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- disaster management

News: Article discusses land-subsidence in Joshimath, Uttarakhand due to infrastructure projects, causing safety concerns. Reports reveal non-compliance to building codes and highlight need for sustainable development, public risk information, and informed policymaking.

What do the technical reports say about the sinking of Joshimath?

Non-Compliance to Building Codes: The Central Building Research Institute revealed that 99% of construction in the region isn’t compliant with mandatory building codes, raising safety concerns.

Sensitive Geological Conditions: The reports emphasize the fragile geology of Uttarakhand, making it risky for city-like infrastructure projects.

Need for Monitoring: The National Institute of Hydrology highlighted the importance of monitoring springs, drainage systems, and areas of subsidence to understand their influence on land subsidence.

What are the recommendations for the future?

Adherence to Building Codes: The technical reports stress adherence to mandatory building codes to ensure structural safety in the unstable geology of the region.

Monitoring of Geological Aspects: Monitoring springs, drainage systems, and areas of subsidence is crucial to understand their influence on land subsidence.

Public Awareness and Information Dissemination: Information on risks should be widely disseminated, and the public should be made aware of the risks involved in the region.

Independent Scientific Counsel in Policymaking: The incorporation of advice from independent scientific counsel is essential to form policies that respect the geological limitations of the region.

Read more: Unseal And Pause- NDMA finding that Joshimath has overshot carrying capacity was expected