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Source: This post on Char Dham Tunnel Collapse has been created based on the article ‘Unchecked construction’, published in the Business Standard on 14th November 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 – Disasters and disaster management
News: A tunnel collapse in the Himalayas trapped 40 construction workers. This incident occurred on the Char Dham national highway project between Brahmakhal and Yamunotri in Uttarkashi.
The Char Dham project is part of India’s large-scale infrastructure initiatives in mountainous regions. Read more.
Other Recent Incidents and Damages
There have been multiple incidents in these areas, indicating a pattern of challenges and dangers associated with such projects.
Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Power Project: A major landslide disrupted construction and blocked diversion tunnels.
Teesta River Flash Floods: Flash floods damaged the Chungthang Dam and Teesta hydropower stations, leading to significant financial losses.
What are the reasons behind frequent incident in Himalayas?
Disaster vulnerable area: The region is increasingly vulnerable to landslides, flash floods, and earthquakes, exacerbated by climate change.
Ignorance of technical and environmental appraisal: Minimal appraisal are being taken. These are not just bureaucratic hurdles but crucial for safety and sustainability of the manpower and the environment.
Himalayan Biosphere: The Himalayas are recognized as a unique and sensitive biosphere that requires special care and preservation.
Read more about vulnerability of Himalayas
What should be done?
Assessment over political will: Political will for socially significant projects such as Char Dham should not be given importance over technocratic assessment of whether they are feasible.
Environmental Impact: The article underscores the need to consider the ecological impact of construction projects in this fragile region.
Question for Practice
Considering the unique ecological sensitivity of the Himalayan region and the increasing frequency of natural disasters, what measures should be implemented to ensure a balance between infrastructure development and environmental preservation?
